(EN) Gwangju News June 2013 #136

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www.gwangjunewsgic.com

June 2013 Issue No. 136

On The Cover:

Gwangju Prize for Human Rights Winners Tempo and HIJOS share their insights

Nine Bullets Exhibit Shot fired through Art

Hiking in China Exploring Beauty high above Earth

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Gwangju News June 2013

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June 2013

ON THE COVER

www.gwangjunewsgic.com

THE EDITORIAL TEAM Publisher: Dr. Shin Gyonggu GWANGJU NEWS PRINT Editor-in-Chief: Kathleen Villadiego Editor: Joey Nunez Sub-Editor: Shay Meinecke Layout Editor: Karina Prananto Coordinators: Karina Prananto, Kim Minsu Photo Editors: Karina Prananto, Simon Bond Chief Proofreader: Bradley Weiss Copy Editors: Vanessa Cisneros, Michael Moak, Joey Nunez, Jon Ozelton, Bradley Weiss

Creative Consultant: Warren Parsons Proofreaders: Don Gariepy, Heinrich Hattingh, Joey Nunez, Jon Ozelton, Jordan VanHartingsveldt, Bradley Weiss, Gilda Wilson

Researchers: Choi Junyong, Cheon Soyeon, Cho Haeri, Lee Jungmi, Park Kyungjin

GWANGJU NEWS ONLINE Editor: C. Adam Volle Technical Manager: Carl Hedinger Assistant Site Administrator: Nathan Fulkerson Online Administrator: Brittany Baker

Cover Photo: Wahyu Muryadi, Chief Editor of Tempo Magazine Photographer: Simon Bond

This Month’s Features 12 Indonesia’s Voice for Human Rights

By Robert Grotjohn

14 Embracing the Spirit: 33 Years Later

By Jenn Tinoco

Gwangju News is published by Gwangju International Center Address: Jeon-il Building 5F, Geumnam-no 1-1, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-758, South Korea

Phone: +82-62-226-2733~4 Fax: +82-62-226-2731 Website: www.gwangjunewsgic.com E-mail: gwangjunews@gmail.com Registration No.: 광주광역시 라. 00145 (ISSN 2093-5315) Registration Date: February 22, 2010 Printed by Logos (Phone +82-62-444-8800) Publication Date: May 28, 2013

Gwangju News is a monthly English magazine written and edited by volunteers. We welcome your contributions for proofreading, copy editing, administration, layout/design and distribution. Please write to gwangjunews@gmail.com and tell us your area of interest.

Special thanks to the City of Gwangju and all of our sponsors.

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Gwangju News welcomes letters to the editor (gwangjunews@gmail.com) regarding articles and issues. Articles and submissions may be edited for reasons of clarity or space.

Photo by Simon Bond

Gwangju News June 2013

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contents 7 8

This Month in Gwangju/ Carl Hedinger Upcoming Events

features 12 14

Indonesia’s Voice for Human Rights/ Robert Grotjohn Embracing the Spirit: 33 Years Later/ Jenn Tinoco

art 16 20

Gwangju Museum of Art: May 18 Exhibition/ Adam Hogue Nine Bullets: A Solo Exhibition by Hong Seong-dam/ Tessa Guze

photography 6 28 30 31

Gwangju Peace Prize Awards Ceremony/ Lorryn Smit and Joe Wabe Japan: Legacy of the Tsunami/ Matt Furlane Photo of the Month/ Relja Kovic Why Your Equipment Matters/ Simon Bond

travel 26 35 38

Exploring China’s Flower Summit/ Brittany Baker Wolchul Mountain/ Kim Myoung-jin GIC Culture Tour to Boseong/ Warren Parsons

community 18 22 36

Humanity’s Warrior Fights On/ Joey Nunez The Other Side of the Bridge: Introducing the Korea Bridge Initiative in Gwangju/ Tracey Lam and Thomas Wilson

Visible Connections – Linking Birds, People and the World Together/ Nial Moores

culture 24 34 40 40 41

The 3Fs: Family, Friends and Food/ Khairunnisa Azri North Korea and the ‘D’ Word/ Matt Furlane Orange Finger Tips/ Stephen Redeker Dear Korea/ Jen Lee The More the Better vs. Too Much is as Bad as too Little/ Lee Yuni

42 46

Anything Goes/ jjdp Crossword/ Mike Schroeder

language & literature 44 48 50 51

Poems by Shin Byong-eun/ Translated by Song Chae-Pyong and Anne Rashid The Times, They are A-Changing/ Dr. David Shaffer Send Out Your Post!/ Jannies Le Learn Korean Idiomatic Expressions with Talk To Me in Korean/ Sun Hyunwoo

food 32 52 53

Perspectives: Food Allergies in Korea, Part 1/ Kristal Lee Chwihwaseon/ Karina Prananto Pumpkin Pancake & Stir-fried Anchovies/ Park Kyungjin

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Community Board Gwangju News June 2013

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Gwangju Prize for Human Rights Awards Ceremony

Julia Parodi and Marcos Kary from HIJOS receive the Award Certificate from May 18 Memorial Foundation Photo by Lorryn Smit

HIJOS present its impact on human rights in Argentina Photo by Lorryn Smit

A music performance closes the Prize for Human Rights Award Ceremony Photo by Joe Wabe

Julia Parodi gives her speech Photo by Lorryn Smit 6

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This Month in Gwangju A brief roundup of news stories from in and around Gwangju

By Carl Hedinger Gwangju City Tour in Operation since May In case you may not already know, there is something new to do in Gwangju. To promote Gwangju to visitors, both Korean and foreign, the Gwangju Tourism Association (GTA) will operate a city tour bus. In accordance with GTA, the bus will run two courses from May 11 to September 24 on Saturdays and Sundays, from 9:20 a.m. to 6 p.m. The tour plans to use three 40-seat buses and will also recruit interpreters and tour guides. The two courses include “History and Culture” and a “Museum and Exhibition” route. Both take about eight hours to complete. Here's a guide to each route: Photo courtesy of Gwangju Metropolitan City

Gwangju sows seeds at new ballpark Mayor Kang planted seeds at the new baseball stadium that will be the Kia Tigers' new home. More than 150 local citizens participated, including baseball players and students from Daeseong and Soochang Elementary Schools. The stadium grass is a species of Kentucky bluegrass, known for its excellent flatness, which is perfect for the rolled lawn used for baseball fields. Stadium construction will finish by the end of 2013 and will seat 22,000 fans on game days. The total project costs will be over 99 billion won, with the 2014 season expected to be the Tigers' first season playing in the new stadium.

Gwangju Healing Garden Opens in Nam-gu In Nam-gu, a new venue for parents of elementary and kindergarten children opened at the end of May. It is located opposite Deachon Elementary School. Nam-gu's District Office held an opening ceremony on May 25 to launch the “Healing Garden.” The building is furnished with a botanical garden containing 1,000 plant species, a rose garden, doctor fish, an aquarium and a café. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the year and through the summer season, from June to September, it will stay open until 8 p.m. Although admission is free, there will be a small fee to pay for using services such as doctor fish and the flower basket making. On the opposite side of the healing center, visitors can check out the Bitgoeul Craft-Creation Village. Here patrons can see ceramics, folding fans, paintbrushes and natural dyeing materials.

An “experience program” gives participants an opportunity to learn from resident artists. As one official noted: “Because one can enjoy a variety of sights and experiences for families or even lovers, there are no regrets to be left after visiting.”

”History and Culture”: Gwangju Bus Terminal Gwangju station - 5.18 National Park - Sosaewon Hwanbyeokdang - Chungjangsa - 5.18 Historical Site Yanglim-dong Historical Culture Village - Gwangju Bus Terminal “Museum and Exhibition”: Gwangju Bus Terminal Gwangju National Museum - Gwangju Municipal Folk Museum - Traditional Culture Center - Jeungsimsa Uijae Art Gallery - Gwangju Bus Terminal Special courses are planned to run during festival or special events such as the Junior Chamber, the Asia Pacific Conference in June, the World Korean Business Convention in October, the World Human Rights Forum and the World Kimchi Festival. Tickets for tours are 2,000 won for adults, and 1,000 won for elementary, middle and high school students.

Preschoolers attending with parents will ride for free.

Lunch is not included with admission so be sure to pack some food for the trip. Advance reservations can be made through U-TOURPIA, Gwangju's tour portal site (http://utour.gwangju.go.kr/).

May Day Event in Hanam Hanam Labor Welfare Center celebrated with 500 workers on May 1, or “May Day,” as it is known to many throughout the world. Heads of local governmental departments were also in attendance for this event. Mr. Son Haeng-oh received a medal for work diligence and around 70 people also received various commendation awards. Organizers announced that labor management, cooperation and creating good jobs makes for a better community image. City officials said that they hope for workers and management to work peacefully together and recognize how good relations are vital to the local economy.

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Upcoming Events June 2013 Contributors: Choi Junyong, Cheon Soyeon, Cho Haeri, Lee Jungmi, Park Kyungjin (GIC Gwangju News Team)

Movie @ Gwangju Theater Address: Chungjang-no 5-ga (two blocks back behind Migliore) Phone: 062-224-5858 Films change weekly to bi-weekly Fee: 8,000 won per person per film Check online for calendar and prices: http://cafe.naver.com/cinemagwangju (in Korean) Populaire 사랑은 타이핑 중 Genre: Comedy Director: Régis Roinsard Starring: Romain Duris, Déborah François, Bérénice Bejo Language: French Synopsis: Rose Pamphyle lives with her widowed father who runs the village store. When she travels to Lisieux in Normandy, she was interviewed for an insurance agency.

Although she gets a job, life becomes a crisis because she is terrible at her new job. However, Rose has a special gift. She can type at an extraordinary speed. In order to find another job, she has to compete in a speedtyping competition. Her boss then becomes a trainer for her.

The faster Rose can type, the deeper they fall in love.

Sleepless Night 잠 못 드는 밤

Genre: Drama Director: Jang Gunjae Starring: Kim Suhyun, Kim Juryung Language: Korean Synopsis: Juhee and Hyunsu are very loving toward each other, although they have been married for two years. They enjoy their lives and live together happily.

However, one day, Juhee asks Hyunsu about having a child and asks, “how about our lives if we have a children?” but Hyunsu quickly changes the subject. Although in the same room, and even on the same bed, they are quietly lying separately. They can't sleep. Will things change after that night?

Poulet aux prunes, Chicken with Plums 어느 예술가의 마지막 일주일 Genre: Drama Director: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi Starring: Mathieu Amalric, Edouard Baer, Maria de Medeiros Language: French Synopsis: This is a story about the last week of a sad and agonizing artist. After his wife breaks his beloved violin, Nasser-Ali, a talented musician, decides he wants to die. His wife pleads for his life and not even his child's figure can stop him from choosing death.

However, on the 6th day after deciding on death, the angel of death visits him and he shows Nasser his previous life and his children's future.

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Gwangju News June 2013

Comme un chef, The Chef 쉐프 Genre: Drama, Comedy Director: Daniel Cohen Starring: Jean Reno, Michaël Youn, Raphaëlle Agogué Language: French Synopsis: A veteran chef, Alxandre, who is also a famous chef who is recognized by Michelin, is in danger of being expelled from the restaurant where he works because the owner of the restaurant regards his cook as old-fashioned and outdated. And at that time, he meets a younger chef, Jacky, who has tremendous talent as a cook. Jacky can make all the same dishes Alxandre makes. So, he appoints Jacky as his assistant and they begin working on a project to preserve his status in the restaurant.

Sports Gwangju FC June Match Schedule Date

Match Team

Time

6 9 30

Bucheon FC Korean Police FC Sangju FC

2 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Venue: Gwangju World Cup Stadium (광주월드컵경기장) Directions: Bus 6, 16, 20, 26, 47 or 74 to the World Cup Stadium Ticket Price: VIP 10,000 won, GOLD 5,000 won (10% discount for online ticket purchases) Website: www.gwangjufc.com

KIA Tigers Baseball Team June Match Schedule Date

Match Team

Time

1-2 11- 13 14 15 - 16 25 - 27

LG NC Dinos SK SK Doosan

5 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

5 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Venue: Gwangju Mudeung Baseball Stadium (무등경기장) Directions: Bus 16, 38, 51, 53, 58, 89, 95, 98, or 151 to Mudeung Stadium Ticket Price: Adults 9,000 - 13,000 won Website: www.tigers.co.kr

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Performances Nemesis – 3rd Album part2 'Dream' concert 네미시스 전국 투어 콘서트 Venue: Gwangju Nevermind Date: June 8 Time: 7 p.m.

Admission: Advance ticket 35,000 won / At the box office 44,000 won Phone: 070-8271-5549 Autumn Vacation Concert 가을 방학 콘서트 Venue: Gwangju U-square Dong-san Art Hall Date: June 8 Time: 7 p.m.

Admission: All Seats 55,000 won Phone: 070-4334-3792 Musical: My Mom 뮤지컬 친정엄마 Venue: Grand Theater, Gwangju Cultural and Art Center Date: June 8 - 9 Time: 2 p.m. / 6 p.m.

Admission: VIP Seat 88,000 won / R Seat 77,000 won / S Seat 66,000 won Phone: 062-613-8340 Musical CHICAGO 시카고 Venue: Grand Theater, Gwangju Cultural and Art Center Date: June 28 - 30 Time: June 28 - 7:30 p.m. / June 29 - 3 p.m., 7: 30 p.m. / June 30 - 2 p.m.

Admission: VIP Seat 120,000 won / R Seat 100,000 won / S Seat 80,000 won / A Seat 60,000 won Phone: 1588-0766 2013 Masterwork Series – Shostakovich 광주 시립 교향악단 제 287회 정기 연주회 Venue: Grand Theater, Gwangju Cultural and Art Center Date: June 16 - 19 Time: 7:30 p.m.

Admission: R Seat 30,000 won / S Seat 20,000 won / A Seat 10,000 won Phone: 062-524-5086

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Festivals

Suncheon Bay Garden Expo 2013 순천정원박람회 Date: April 20 - October 20 Venue: Suncheon Bay, Suncheon, Jeollanam-do Directions: From Gwangju Bus Terminal, take a bus to Suncheon (frequency: every 10-20 minutes; duration 1 hour and 10 minutes), then from Suncheon Bus Terminal, take bus no. 67 going to Suncheon Bay (frequency: every 20-30 minutes). There is direct bus from Gwangju to Suncheon Bay on weekends.

For more information, call 1577-2013 http://eng.2013expo.or.kr/

2013 Yeo-ja Bay Sunset festival 여자만 갯벌노을 축제 Date: June 21 - June 23 Venue: Yeo-ja Bay, Yeosu, Jeollanam-do Directions: From Gwangju Bus Terminal, take a bus to Yeosu (frequency: every 10-20 minutes; duration 1hour and 30 minutes), then from Yeosu Bus terminal, take buses no. 81, 88 going to City Hall (frequency: every 10-20 minutes).

Then take shuttle bus to the festival venue.

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Gokseong World Rose Festival 곡성 세계 장미 축제 Date: Until June 2 Venue: Seomjin-gang Train Villiage, Gokseong, Jeollanam-do Directions: From the Gwangju bus terminal, take a bus to Gokseong (frequency: every 30 minutes), then take a taxi to the venue (about 10 minutes) Admission: between 3,000 to 4,000 won For more information, visit: eng.jirisantour.com

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Exhibitions

Newpaper 뉴페이퍼 Venue: space k_Gwangju Date: May 2 - June 18 Time: Tues. - Sun., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m./ closed Mondays Admission Fee: Free Phone: 062-370-5948 For more information, visit: www.spacek.co.kr

2013 Gwangju Baby Fair 2013 광주 베이비페어 Venue: Kim Daejung Convention Center Date: June 20 - June 23 Time: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Directions: Buses no. 02, 19, 20, 38, 39, 62, 62, 69, 73, 270, 1000: get off at Kim Daejung Convention Center Admission Fee: 2,000 won Phone: 1899-4013 For more information: www.kjbabyfair.kr

Korea Wedding Industry Fair 대한민국 웨딩산업박람회 Venue: Kim Daejung Convention Center Date: June 20 Time: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Admission Fee: Free Phone: 02-540-7633 For more information, visit: www.kowia.org

5-18-1980: Art of the Democratic Movement 오월_1980년대 광주민중미술 Venue: Gwangju National Museum Date: May 1 - July 21 Time: Tues. - Sun., 10 a.m. - 7 p.m./ closed Mondays Admission Fee: Adults, 500 won/ Youth, 300 won/ Children, 200 won Phone: 062-613-7100 For more information, visit: www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr

Gwangju International Tea Fair 2013 광주국제 차문화 전시회 Date: May 30 - June 2 Venue: Kim Daejung Convention Center Directions: Buses no. 02, 19, 20, 38, 39, 62, 62, 69, 73, 270, 1000: get off at Kim Daejung Convention Center Admission: 3,000 won For more information, visit: www.teaexpo.or.kr

Find more information about living in Gwangju by checking out the Gwangju Guidebook.

Pick up your Gwangju Guidebook today. Available at the GIC for 1,000 won donation or check online: www.gwangjuguide.or.kr Gwangju News June 2013 11

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feature

Indonesia’s Voice for Human Rights

By Robert Grotjohn Photo by Simon Bond Magazine cover courtesy of Tempo

W

ahyu Muryadi is the Chief Editor of Tempo, the Indonesian news magazine that received the 2013 Special Award from the 5.18 Foundation. The magazine was founded in 1971 on the belief that "the duty of the press is not to disseminate prejudice, but to eliminate it, not to conceive hate, but to communicate understanding." Muryadi answered questions, alongside his wife and his Executive Editor, Hermien Y. Kleden, while also sitting nearby representatives of HIJOS, an organization that received the 2013 May 18th Peace Prize. In the midst of lively lunch time chatter, Muryadi answered questions about Tempo and his experiences in the news business.

Muryadi began as a junior reporter for the magazine in 1987. In 1989, he was assigned an international beat: “I covered the Balkan War in 1992 and 1993 on Middle East issues, and then [for] the Gulf War.” Many of the stories he covered have continued having resonance today: “Also, I covered the post-revolution in Iran, and also the dictatorship of Omar Hassan Ahmad Al-Bashir of the Sudan.”

Feeling secure in his job, he bought a new car in 1994. Almost immediately, however, Tempo was “banned by the government under President Suharto.” Muryadi lost his job, his salary, his ability to make car payments and, thus, his new car.

He laughs about that now, and Tempo indeed had the last laugh. No matter how the government tried to quiet a free press, it could not: “We published on the Internet.” Thus, Tempo was at the forefront of the Internet revolution in Indonesian news reporting.

In 1998, a fledgling democracy, the “Reformation Era,” replaced Suharto's “New Order.” With obvious pride, Muryadi said, “We were reborn; we re-published again.” Tempo, which then included a website, has continued its expansion. In 2000, it became the first Indonesian news magazine to publish in English, as well as in the native Indonesian language of Bahasa. Tempo has now entered “the convergence era,” in which, he said, 12

Gwangju News June 2013

“We are trying to link media outlets, so, if you are talking about Tempo, we are not only the print or online outlets, but also television.” Tempo is also the first magazine in Indonesia to become available through smartphone technology.

With its 1998 rebirth, Tempo's staff re-established their priorities: “The first one was bad politicians, the second one was corruption, the third one was human rights, the fourth one was environmental issues, [like] climate change and the fifth was democracy and autonomy.” Later, he added terrorism to his list.

Tempo's focus on human rights includes the issue of local autonomy, and Muryadi connected the top-down political structure with economic fairness: “There is a lot of profit from natural gas and mining but no proper money goes to the local people,” especially in the regions of Aceh and Papua. “The issue is how we distribute the royalties. Most of the money goes to Jakarta, and the people aren't affected.”

Tempo has also championed the cases of two political activists. “Munir Said Thalib was killed by, I think, intelligence agencies in 2004. He was on a flight from Jakarta to Singapore. Somebody put poison in his food. Up to now maybe only Tempo was really concerned about that. The most recent issue of Tempo magazine is about Widji Thukul, who was an activist, a poet and a human rights activist. I don't know if it was a kidnapping or if he was killed, but he disappeared in 1998.”

When asked if Indonesian “guest workers” in Korea were a human rights concern, Muryadi said, “We are more concerned about the unskilled labor, including the women, in the Middle East countries.

Most of the labor from Indonesia goes to the Middle East. The laborers complain they have no proper income because of corruption by the agents for the labor, both in Indonesia and the Middle East.

But the [most important concern about] human rights is the sex trade and human trafficking.”

Some of Tempo's most famous reporting on police

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Above: The controversial cover of Tempo featured in their June 30 - July 6, 2010 edition Left: Chief Editor Wahyu Muryadi and Executive Editor Hermien Y. Kleden in downtown Gwangju

corruption took place in 2010: “It made all the police angry. They complained to the National Press Council, and then we had some negotiations. We gave the police the chance, as to anybody, to write a counter article. They have the right to do that.” Explaining his reasoning of why, Muryadi said, “This is democracy: it maintains ethical values. Our credo of journalism is that truth can come from the place that we really hate. So we have to give a space for them, a space to express themselves."”

Another Tempo space for varied expression is Koran Tempo, which focuses on religious issues.

Muryadi said, “We are very concerned about religious freedom. Everybody must, you know, respect everybody else. But the problem is some conflicts among the Muslims and the Christians.

Even among the Muslims – the radical ones with the moderate and mainstream ones. We promote interfaith dialogues. We are really concerned about that. We have over 200 million, the biggest Muslim population in the world. It is not easy to educate the people all through the country to understand each other. We are always doing that through our editorial voice.”

Lady Gaga became a point of discussion, whose scheduled concert in Jakarta was cancelled last year under pressure from religious groups.

Muryadi's response: “I myself, in my personal perspective, don't like [her] performances like

‘Poker Face.’ But, on the basis of democracy and human rights, the freedom of expression, freedom of speech, we have to respect, we have to give space to Lady Gaga and everybody else. It is the obligation of the police to protect [artists like] them, not to ban them in the name of a religious perspective or in the name of protecting the people. Our position, our response is that this is a bad policy.” He added that it is impossible to keep people from seeing Lady Gaga, anyway: “Look at the Internet. You cannot ban news anymore.”

Muryadi's answers, even regarding questions about pop stars, and his persistent, emphatic return to freedom of expression and human rights as the basis of democracy, revealed a man of principle, an apt representative and leader of Tempo. Beginning with the magazine over 40 years ago, Tempo has continued to be a voice spreading the message of human rights in Southeast Asia. Muryadi reminds us all that, without a free press, democracy may be impossible, and, when democracy is threatened, a press that refuses to surrender its freedom offers key opposition to that threat.

For more information, please explore Tempo online. News in English with daily updates, including a report of Muryadi's visit to Gwangju to receive the 5.18 Special Award, can be found at en.tempo.co, with the online English version found at magz.tempo.com. The in-depth reporting on the disappearance of poet/activist Widji Thukul in the May 14 edition is well worth reading.

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feature

Embracing the Spirit: 33 Years Later

By Jenn Tinoco Co-written by Shin Junhyun and Kim Junki Photos by Joe Wabe, Simon Bond and Lorryn Smit

R

epresentatives for Democracy in Argentina, Indonesia and Gwangju's Mayor Kang UnTae, all gathered for the annual Gwangju Prize for Human Rights Award Ceremony on the appropriate May 18 anniversary date.

Held on a sunny Saturday afternoon at the May 18th Memorial Park and Cemetery, 2013 marks the 33rd year since the heart-wrenching massacre paved a new way for democracy in South Korea.

“I feel honored to be a part of commemorating human rights here today in the city of Gwangju,” stated Yoon Janghyun, chairman of the Asia Commission on Civil Rights. He reminded the audience of the positive spirit that has arisen from such traumatic events.

Followed by a warm welcome to UNESCO and the special awardees of the day, Kang said that he believes “human rights can change our current world situations. It is a vital point in human lives around the globe.” With Korea being a country sustaining democratic policies and education, he added that “[the citizen's] movement is very important.” In selecting the awardees, Kang felt that it was an ideal choice and he believes that this prize will amount to greater law in the future.

“I cannot fully express myself in Spanish but when I first learned about HIJOS, I thought it was very beautiful. And I would like to congratulate Tempo magazine for protecting human rights and journalism," continued Kang.

HIJOS of Argentina (Sons and Daughters fighting for identity and justice against Forgetting and Silence) is composed by those who know people who have disappeared, were executed or been imprisoned for political reasons or forced to exile during the repression of the military dictatorship in Argentina from 1976 to 1983.

Since its establishment in April 1995, HIJOS aims to report human rights violations that occurred for many unbearable years in the past and build a true representative democracy in Argentina.

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Julia Parodi gives her speech at the May 18 Memorial Foundation Photo by Lorryn Smit

HIJOS' mission is to change the world with its efforts and conduct a variety of activities for commemorating the spirit of the deceased. The Prize Committee especially focused on HIJOS' consistent efforts to bring perpetrators, military, police and civilians responsible for implementing state terrorism, to justice.

“May 18 has similar principles that guide the same for HIJOS, along with the struggle against utilitarianism. [It's] great to finally meet here in Korea, face-to-face,” stated Julia Parodi, one of two representatives for HIJOS, during her speech.

In her country, about 30,000 civilians were murdered and/or have disappeared due to their political beliefs. Thirty-seven years later, many are yet to be found; dead or alive. Both in Cordobazo, Argentina (1969) and in Gwangju, South Korea (1980), students and workers united and stood up against the military dictatorship.

Parodi further stated: “We trust democratic constitution to support human rights. By this peaceful struggle, we will overthrow military [injustice] and I would like to share with all of you that Jorge Rafael Videla, who was in charge of the illegal acts and who caused ‘dirty wars’ against our people in Argentina 37 years ago, died where he belonged, in prison.”

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Photo by Lorryn Smit

Photo by Joe Wabe

Photo by Simon Bond

Photo by Joe Wabe

Clockwise from top left: HIJOS received the Gwangju Prize for Human Rights on May 18 at the May 18 Memorial Foundation; Two representatives from HIJOS, Marcos Kary (left) and Julia Parodi (right) in downtown Gwangju; HIJOS activities to promote human rights in Argentina; Photos of victims of the injustice

“We expect, therefore, all these achievements may encourage countries, especially those who, suffered authoritarian military regime, and give them a hopeful message,” Parodi added.

The Special Prize was awarded to Tempo, an Indonesian weekly news magazine that not only covers injustice in power, but also corruption in the region. The Indonesian government banned Tempo years ago for publishing about the harsh, unfair political situation of Indonesia. Wahyu Muryadi, the magazine's chief editor, stated during his speech: “Media must strive to be a source of information, to bring to light those in power who abuse [the media.]”

It was on January 12, 1971 when Tempo first wrote its principles in which they “must believe in the

duty of the press to have a communicable understanding of politics, not to condemn it.” The Gwangju award was a “stepping stone” to elevate human rights and awareness. Despite the fact that Tempo became the country's leading news magazine with its groundbreaking reporting and strong independent editorial stance, Indonesian politicians have threatened most of their journalists for years.

Both HIJOS and Tempo representatives accepted the medals and cash awards from the city of Gwangju, which was followed by a closing performance from the Hankyoreh Peace Tree Choir. The chosen songs were “The Day Has To Come,” “March for Love” and “Morning Dew,” sung even during the May 18th Uprising in 1980.

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art

Gwangju Museum of Art: May 18 Exhibition

By Adam Hogue Photos courtesy of Gwangju Museum of Art and Adam Hogue

T

he Gwangju Museum of Art, for me, is a place of refuge. It sits on the edge of Jungoe Park, set back from the highway, apartments and the action of the city; it provides a quiet place where one can let his or her mind wander and explore what the minds of others have created. To stop and look at the art is something we do not do nearly enough and it is time that we take those words seriously.

On May 1, the Gwangju Museum of Art (GMA) opened a new exhibition that works to engage the city in the reality of its own history. The exhibition 518-1980: Art of the Democratic Movement (오월 _1980년대 광주민중미술) is a collection of artwork created by artists in the immediate wake of the Gwangju Massacre of May 18. All of the artists made the artwork here in the city between the years of 1980 to 1990. They are dark, intimate and immediate. Some call out for answers and some lament, some take a cynical edge and others seek to bring closure. Together, it is one of the most powerful art exhibits I have seen.

Gwangju Museum of Art exterior Photo by Adam Hogue

Inside the Exhibition Hall Photo by Gwangju Museum of Art

The art spoke honestly and thoughtfully to a reality that existed not too long ago and must always be remembered.

Walking through the exhibition, the artwork does not follow a chronological order, opting to group the pieces by artist and theme. The first room begins with a statue of an incomplete man torn apart with bullet holes followed by a rather abstract series by the artist Shin Kyong-ho (신경호) that recycles the colors of red and green, a stark contrast between the Earth and the blood of those killed.

It is striking to note that the majority of the paintings were created directly following the massacre in the year 1980. A series by Hong Seong-dam (홍성담), completed in 1980 and 1981, features reoccurring images of the streets of Gwangju, quiet and unassuming with a looming statue of a general on a horse casting a shadow over the people and shops; a reminder of the military rule that Korea found itself under.

On the wall facing the works of Mr. Hong is a series 16

Gwangju News June 2013

known as “The Cities” by Kang Yeon-kyun (강연균).

The large paintings picture layers of bodies drawn in an almost comic-like fashion piled on top of one: another juxtaposition with the image of decaying fish.

Our limited condition of being human is a constant theme throughout the exhibit.

Rounding the corner to the remainder of the exhibit, the viewer is met by a striking portrait by Lee Gunpyo (이근표). It is one of the few portraits in the entire exhibition and it caught me off-guard. In the midst of the sorrow and shadows and images, there is a face: a reminder that this happened to human beings, by human beings.

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A centerpiece to the exhibit is a series of woodcuts created by Hong Seong-dam. They line an entire wall of the exhibit and they show various scenes from the massacre, during and after. They begin a shift in the exhibit from the deeply introspective to the activist. The museum has two very large wall murals (걸개그림). The large wall pictures depict the outward message of those fighting for democracy in 1980.

Along one wall, a mural, completed by three artists, depicts Gwangju: wounded to the far left of a world map that features a scathing picture of America on the right with all of our vices, a picture of Michael Jackson and the Statue of Liberty hiding a gun in her robe charging across the world with the Japanese and General Chun Doo-hwan (전두 환) barreling through a series of indigenous PacificIslanders from various places occupied by the west on their way.

It was indeed a period of deep anti-American sentiment and resentment for the Reagan Administration siding with General Chun. American cultural centers were burned to the ground more than once in Gwangju and students went as far as immolating themselves in protest of Reagan's support for Chun.

This is the part of history we do not hear and it is such an important perspective to have. Korea was a very different place not too long ago and it is a part of the story that we need to hear.

The exhibition is a great collection of artwork and historical artifacts surrounding the events of May 18, 1980. It is a living, breathing statement that declares “I was there,” and it clearly shows the truth and history with a plain picture.

No words are necessary. It is all there to see for yourself.

The exhibition 오월_1980년대 광주민중미술 is open from May 1 until July 21. If you have never been to the Gwangju Museum of Art before, I highly recommend this exhibit as an introduction. Art made in Gwangju that illuminates one of the most important moments of Korean history, it is a must see.

The Gwangju Museum of Art is located in Jungoe Park, opposite the Gwangju Folk Museum and the Biennale. Take a Saturday and check it out.

A special thanks to Lim Jong-young (임종영) for his insight, company and tour through the exhibition.

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community

Humanity's Warrior Fights On

By Joey Nunez Photos by Eugene Soh, Kim Minsu and from the Cambodia Human Rights Archives This rare, exclusive interview was made possible by Mr. Eugene Soh, Dr. Shin Gyonggu and their collective generosity for reporting Gwangju's history.

F

or Mr. Eugene Soh, the most precious value in life is human rights. However, if we do not strive to preserve this characteristic of our humanity, Soh's following analogy is alarming: “If we don't have [human rights], we are literally living in a jungle. In a jungle, there is one law: the strongest get everything. That is what I am concerned about.”

Soh's activism, on behalf of all Asians, originated in Seoul. Originally from Jeonju, Soh attended university in Seoul, majoring in English Literature, with the initial desire to become a writer. Then, April 19, 1960 changed Korea, and Soh too.

Soh recalls how university students rebelled against a government led by a civilian dictator. On that day, 224 young people perished, but as a result, Korea experienced freedom it had never before claimed.

According to Soh, the student movement kept going, making an impact even today. “They just kept fighting for freedom, democracy and human rights. Because of the Student Movement, it was possible to make Korea.”

From what he personally witnessed, Soh “suddenly became a warrior” for “fighting against the system.” Soh finished his higher education after completing his mandatory national military service, shortly before the drafting for the Vietnam War began.

While living in Seoul, Soh befriended Americans employed through the U.S. Embassy. One close friend even paved the way for Soh to study in the United States. From his experiences, he said he then understood the American system.

While studying International Relations, Soh began at a community college, transferred and graduated from a private institution and finalized his graduate work, all within the area of Washington D.C.

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Gwangju News June 2013

Mr. Soh (standing, fourth from left) with other human rights activits from around Asia in Cambodia

Upon graduating, Soh met members of the Senate and House of Representatives, focusing his effort to convince members of Congress that if America wanted to be more effective in Korea, they needed the support of the Korean people.

When the events of May 18, 1980 happened, Soh remembers what he did after work. “I watched the nightly news every night, and Walter Cronkite, for CBS, was reporting, and one night, he opened with Gwangju. The memory, it strikes me. The collapse of human dignity: that is what we saw.”

After his time in America concluded, Soh's work with the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) started. Soh has had the privilege of visiting and serving in most Asian countries, providing aid in situations where European colonialism, civil war and poverty have left their damaging effects.

The island southeast of India, Sri Lanka suffered a “vicious, political conflict” after declaring independence from Portugal. According to Soh and the Ashoka Innovators for the Public, during the 1980s when a power struggle between two extremist groups occurred, more than 60,000 citizens vanished. “They never said 'massacre.' They always said, 'disappeared,'” Soh remarked.

Sadly, a small number of victims, most innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire, have been

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Eugene Soh chuckles before answering a question

Eugene Soh on his travel around Southeast Asia

identified, due to how the killers degraded and destroyed the corpses. “They killed the person, they put on a tire necklace and then they burned the bodies, so there was no way to recognize the bodies,” Soh said.

By way of the AHRC, Soh traveled to Sri Lanka to help an organization whose members were divided with how to handle honoring the lost. With the support of the AHRC and the May 18th Memorial Foundation, Soh bridged the gap by suggesting a monument be created for those killed. According to an AHRC's press release, the monument's official unveiling was on February 4, 2000, with the formal national observation annually on October 27.

With a visible monument for Sri Lankans to always remember, Soh mentioned that it is dedicated to those who sacrificed, so that “this kind of very brutal thing never happens again. This kind of injustice must end.”

More recently, Soh has helped in Cambodia.

Initially, Soh was asked to investigate the medical services in a country that experienced civil war in the 1960s under the rule of the Khmer Rouge. From his findings, the AHRC requested Doctors Without Borders to set-up the Gwangju Medical Clinic, near Cambodia's capital, Phnom Pehn. The facility's official opening was in May 2013.

For Sri Lanka, Cambodia and the other opportunities, Soh has always referred back to the “May 18th texts.” Soh has explained Gwangju's May 18 events in all Asian countries, because they have

all been colonized at some point by a European nation. “They have been under oppression, and they are still living under the injustice.”

Soh has also shown what can happen after such tragedy occurs, with regards to “the monument inheritance of the Gwangju spirit.” “We showed and shared our experience here, so we encouraged them: 'Don't give up hope.'”

For those who are not familiar with national instability, Soh wanted to express additional thoughts. The first part was addressed to Gwangju citizens to have pride in their city. In fact, when foreigners have shown interest in traveling to Korea, he tells them to visit Gwangju. “If you don't see Gwangju, you don't see half of the country.”

For those in the foreign community, finding “live knowledge” is what Soh desired to emphasize. “If you go there, if you see for yourself, [then] you can experience it, you can do it, and once you do it, then it is yours.” According to Soh, merely reading books about places to visit is just “copied knowledge.”

Instead, Soh used a final analogy for actively acquiring “live knowledge.” “It is like the train without the track. Without the track, the train can't go. The road did not exist in the beginning, so I always encourage young people to go and see it for themselves. Don't ask me. You can go and see it for yourself. You can do it, because all this is possible.”

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art

Nine Bullets:

a solo exhibition

by Hong Seong-dam

By Tessa Guze Photos by Joe Wabe

1

O

n Friday, May 10, May Hall gallery held an opening reception for their current exhibition: Nine Bullets. The May Hall is a small gallery in downtown Gwangju, just five minutes' walk from the YMCA. Nine Bullets is a solo exhibition of work by Hong Seong-dam.

Hong is an internationally recognized artist, and the reception was attended by many patrons and interested art enthusiasts. In fact, by the next day, all of the smaller pieces had already been sold.

Hong became an internationally-recognized artist after the 1980 Gwangju Uprising. He was a student at Chonnam during his junior year and an active participant in the protests. At the time, Hong was only mildly interested in studying art; his real interests were music and folk dance.

He began pursuing art as a way to give voice to his strong political views. His talent and the strength of his message commanded immediate attention. His message reached artists and politicians in Japan, Germany, the United States and even North Korea.

Hong often works with woodcuts because they enable him to make multiple prints allowing his messages to be spread as widely and to as many people as possible. Four of the prints he made after the 1980 Uprising were displayed in various locations in North Korea, including in Pyongyang, which, he says, led to him being accused, tortured and imprisoned

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Gwangju News June 2013

for three years by the Korea CIA before he was finally released. He believes that it was the advocacy of the international contacts he had made through his art that made his release possible.

Hong's work often focuses on government violence and weapons. This exhibition focuses on the two most significant images from the Gwangju Uprising: the gun and the bullet, as demonstrated in the big paintings featured in the main gallery. These pieces are not woodcuts, but one-of-a-kind large paintings.

An important element in many of these paintings is the M16 rifle. According to Hong, the M16 was designed to do maximum damage to its victims and create the highest number of fatalities because its bullets travel faster than sound, and they rotate so that they do not just penetrate the victim's body but also tear and shred it in an ever-widening path.

Hong said the M16 had been banned by international agreement, and added that the U.S. army broke this agreement when they decided to make it their army's standard rifle during the Vietnam War. Hong uses the M16 in these paintings because it is the weapon soldiers used on unarmed civilians in the Gwangju Uprising.

Hong illustrates the destructive power of an M16 bullet in a sculpture featured in the exhibit. From the front it shows a small bullet hole in a man's forehead, and from behind it shows that most of the back of his head is missing.

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2-1

3-1

3-2

4-1

4-2

5

6

2-2

1. Hong Seong-dam and his artwork “Bullet 1� on the background; 2-1 & 2-2. Bullet 5; 3-1 & 3-2. Bullet 2; 4-1 & 4-2. Bullet 3; 5. Bullet through the head; 6. Bullet 1

A large painting that is next to this sculpture shows a soldier firing upon a civilian. The soldier is in the upper left-hand corner. Near the middle of the canvas, you can see the bullet which is on its deadly path towards the bottom right-hand corner where a civilian is challenging the soldier. The painting is almost empty except for these three elements which draw our focus to the small bullet. This painting is about confrontation.

Hong wants the viewer to realize that though the citizen is about to die, he can still pose a lasting spiritual challenge.

Another painting shows a soldier firing at a child across a lake. It illustrates an event that took place at Junam, when soldiers entered the village on their way to Gwangju. Four middle school students were swimming in the lake and when they saw the soldiers they ran and hid. One of the children lost his new shoe as he fled, and since the shoe was new, he made the mistake of returning for it and was shot and killed. The villagers at the bottom of this painting are shown peacefully continuing their work, a negative commentary on peoples' ability to ignore atrocities and not take action even when it is necessary and just.

A third large painting shows a pregnant woman being shot by a soldier. This painting is based on the story of

Choe Mi-Ae, a pregnant woman who was passing by the protests and was shot. When she was found she was already dead, but the baby was still moving inside of her. The protesters tried to rush her to the hospital to try to save the baby, but the soldiers would not let them pass and her baby died as well. Hong uses brushstrokes and angles to make the bullet look as though it is moving. The fish in the center of the painting represents rebirth.

According to Hong there were three great and lasting effects from the Gwangju Uprising. First, people began to mobilize and take action to gain democracy on a larger scale all across the nation. Second, laborers and farmers began to stand up for themselves and ask for the right to a comfortable life. Third, until the Gwangju Uprising, people had a very favorable opinion of the U.S., but afterwards there began to be more of an anti-American feeling. These feelings are from the U.S. unofficially approving armed forces to be moved from the DMZ to Gwangju to stifle the Uprising.

The reception room of the gallery features half a dozen small paintings which have a different feel from the larger ones in the main gallery. They contain small details and organic content which represent rebirth and rehabilitation, and they show the healing from the harm done during the Gwangju Uprising.

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community

The Other Side of the Bridge: Introducing the Korea Bridge Initiative in Gwangju

By Tracey Lam and Thomas Wilson Photos by Tracey Lam and Kristal Lee

T

he scene at the American Corner in the Mudeung Library on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons is very atypical of everyday Gwangju. High school and university students are gathered, teaching and learning from one another, enjoying the challenge of different thinking processes and unearthing their burgeoning creativity under the wings of the Korea Bridge Initiative, a nonprofit founded by two Fulbright grantees in Gwangju and Jeongeup, Jessica Zucker and Thomas Wilson.

Korea's results-oriented education system is both renowned and infamous. The world sees images of overworked students who spend a large chunk of their adolescence studying. For Koreans, the suneung college entrance exam leaves an indelible imprint on students' future paths.

Along with studying, there are other oft-missed events happening in those pictures: the student whose father passed away, whose mother has terminal cancer or who has stellar English and impeccable grades but who is not going to college because she cannot afford private academies or even pay to take the suneung. This is the picture of one of Zucker's students.

“It occurred to me that so many students like her that come from low-income families have almost zero chances to go to university,” explained Zucker.

“I teach at an all-girls vocational high school in Gwangju and found out that, out of 600 students in the 3rd grade, only 12 of them were taking the suneung. There were a few students who have exceptionally high English abilities and received fantastic grades in school, so I was really perplexed as to why none of them had college on [their] radar.”

Inspired by her students' dreams and struck by their situations, Zucker and Wilson began KBI with a mission to reach out to low-income high school 22

Gwangju News June 2013

Lee demonstrates descriptions of students’ past, present, and future selves

students, to provide them with extracurricular opportunities they otherwise would not have had and to show them that education is more than tests and scores: that it is about inquiry, creativity and global citizenship.

Speakers and teachers from the Fulbright Commission and Education USA give talks and lessons on subjects that range from spoken word to poetry to watercolor painting to New Zealand's heritage Poi dance. Students from local universities volunteer to tutor during study hall and participate in

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1

3 university student cultural programming, where they are able to formally discuss education issues in Korea and the United States and in this way practice the global citizenship that they look to help foster in their mentees.

Looking to break away from the unforgiving model of multiple choice questions, Zucker, Wilson and collaborator Kristal Lee are focusing on three tenets in their KBI curriculum: English language skills, global citizenship and creativity. In Lee's words: “Creativity the way the KBI presents it is something that is a bit of a foreign concept for Korean students. They are being introduced to things like POI and Dream Boarding, being told to collaborate and think beyond the realm of subject tests. I want students to see things that were previously invisible to them. I want to expose them and challenge them to exercise their minds and to understand the idea of being a well-rounded person, not just a good student and not just a well-rounded student.”

KBI operates on a fairly small scale now, but Zucker, Wilson and Lee hope for it to become a mainstay of the U.S. Fulbright Program and an organization that

2

1. Zucker introduces the global pen-pal program with a Fulbright Malaysia School; 2. Student illustrates and describes himself in the past, present and future; 3. Lee leads ice-breakers for participants to get to know each other

those looking to serve youth are drawn to because of its mission, philosophy and reach.

While Lee will remain in Gwangju to continue KBI operations there, Wilson, Zucker and other Fulbrighters are already making moves to expand into Busan, Daegu and Daejeon with similar programs. “Currently, with our first generation, we have 21 students. With more teachers we can expand the program because there is definitely the need and desire. From one school alone, over 60 students applied, and the program was only presented to five out of 30 classes,” Lee commented.

This opportunity disparity is not isolated to Gwangju. It is systemic, and KBI is preparing its expansion to develop the presence, the notoriety to tackle this on a larger scale. KBI offers programs for high school students every Friday evening and for university students every Saturday afternoon.

Those who are interested in getting involved should check the KBI Facebook page at http://facebook.com/koreabridgeinitiative for more information.

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culture

The 3Fs:

Family, Friends and Food Words and photos by Khairunnisa Azri This article was written by one of the GIC interns.

For more information about volunteering at the GIC, please contact the GIC at gic@gic.or.kr.

“H

ey, what are you doing this weekend?”

“Nothing”

Scenario 1: “Let's go out and watch a movie and grab something to eat after.”

Scenario 2: “Let's call up everyone and have a barbeque.”

Scenario 3: “I'm bored, do you want to chill at my place? We'll call everyone and see if they are up for a movie marathon/food fest at my place.”

Scenario 4: “My family has this birthday shindig, there will be cakes and bouncers and music. You and the others should come.”

These are the most typical question and answer sessions between any Bruneians. Brunei Darussalam (“Abode of Peace”) is small, yet known for its peacefulness and tranquility. It does not have any entertainment center or any big shopping malls. It is known for its outdoors and nature. That is why we Bruneians like to come up with our own fun and activities. We stick to the 3Fs: Family, Friends and Food. These three things will tend to interrelate with each other one way or another.

Bruneians are known to be people-oriented. It is our nature and has become one of our defining cultural aspects. We love being with our family and friends and we love to eat.

We work or study from Mondays to Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our only day off would be Sundays and sometimes Fridays. Exhausted from our tight schedules, we still find it relaxing to be around people. Moreover, with the most notorious places to go being located in the capital, we would not mind driving to the capital just to spend our weekend.

Though Brunei is an extraordinarily small country (smaller in size than the state of Delaware in the United States), we do welcome foreigners to come 24

Gwangju News June 2013

and visit and enjoy the green scenes, as 70 percent of Brunei is covered with forest. Foreigners always ask, “What should I do first? Where should I go? What is there to do in Brunei?” The first answer is: eat food!

What we would do without our food is beyond our thoughts. It is common to see restaurants or food businesses close to each other. Moreover it is the fastest growing type of business in Brunei. By saying this, you can actually imagine how much Bruneians love food.

Hence, our definition of fun is not by relying on amusement parks or festivals. We rely on quality time with our loved ones. Since we love eating, instead of eating alone, why not spend it with the people we love? We could spend just hours at a nearby kedai makan (food shop) just for high-tea or coffee and talk endlessly. By “we” it could be between husbands and wives, parents and their children or amongst friends. Even when doing business, business partners can have casual meetings in a kedai kopi (coffee shop) and be in a less intense environment to talk about business.

That is the simplest activity there is. A more casual option would be to go out for a movie and dinner. Well-planned activities would be a barbeque or any type of get-together, at home or at the beach.

In Brunei, we do not use the word “party” that much. It is rather a “gathering” for us: people and food all together in one place. Our reason for hosting a gathering does not need to be for any big, public holiday or simply because it is someone's birthday. Let us wheel in the barbeque stand, call up all our relatives and friends and that

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1. HSBC jog-a-thon, Run for a better cause; 2. Beach, on a sunny day in Brunei; 3. Casual Sunday, to the beach with friends; 4. Single, double patties up to a stack of seven burger patties

is just that. Nothing major, it is something small and simple just to gather people and spend a relaxing afternoon together: a day just to catch up with each other.

My friends and I are usually keen on barbeques; being in a home or at the beach. We go early in the morning, fighting over the spot because there would be a lot of people at the beach as well, and we would set up a barbeque by noon and finish late in the evening. In between, we would just play simple card games, lay back, relax and play in the water. Since we do not have high waves, we just do skim-boarding and sometimes wind-surfing. Other than at the beach, we just go for a movie and eat dinner. We see each other almost every weekend, but endless stories and jokes are to be shared that keep our bond closer.

The latest trend nowadays in Brunei is burgers: beef, chicken and lamb; you name it, it is there. There are a ton of burger stalls filling up in Brunei, each one with its own unique type of sauce or style of making, from regular size to a stack of seven burger patties in one go, and even burgers the size of birthday cakes. We

find it challenging, but very amusing to see people trying to eat a whole big size burger at once.

Other than that, since Brunei has limited entertainment opportunities, people go bowling or even practice archery for fun with family and friends. Another healthy trend is to go to the fitness center or join the annually-held jog-a-thon, walk-athon or bike-a-thon. The events are highly recommended for the fun of meeting and joining up with many other Bruneians and running for a healthy lifestyle supporting good causes.

For nature lovers, going on a mini hike (mini compared to hiking in Gwangju, Yikes!) at the Bukit Shahbandar, a tasek lama (a small hill), is an option.

Go deeper into the Temburong district for camping and also for kayaking, and enjoy exploring the tropical rainforest.

I will be finishing my internship and studies by midJune. As much as I have enjoyed my time here in Gwangju, I am looking forward to being back home. I miss my family, my friends and the delicious food that has been calling me all this while.

Gwangju News June 2013

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travel

Taoist Temple on top of Mt. Huashan

Sunset from Mt. Huashan

Exploring China's Flower Summit Words and photos by Brittany Baker

“C

oncentrate. Make sure you are properly detaching and reattaching your harness correctly. Don't look down. Oh no. You looked down. BIG mistake. Deep breaths.

Those are not deep breaths. Panic attack in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. What did I get myself into?” ith more than 6,500 feet separating myself from the ground, these thoughts ran through my mind. As my friend and I clung to the mountain in sheer panic, a fellow hiker come to our rescue. In broken English a Chinese woman wisped by us effortlessly with the grace of Catwoman and told us to “put peace in heart.” With this new advice we continued on our way. With every step we chanted our new mantra.

On a trip to China, a friend and I were adventurous enough to climb Mt. Huashan located in Shaanxi province. The mountain, known as one of China's five sacred mountains, is located 75 miles east of Xi'an. While China is full of several “must-see destinations,” those who want to get off the beaten track, for thrill seekers or for nature lovers, Mt. Huashan should not be missed.

Getting there While the mountain has become more popular in recent years, obtaining information about the mountain remains difficult and getting there is still 26

Gwangju News June 2013

an adventure in itself. Traveling in China is best done by train. But booking should be done in advance as trains regularly sell out.

From Xi'an you can leave from Xi'an Railway Station or Xi'an Bei (North) Railway Station. I recommend the latter. Xi'an North Railway will get you to the city of Huayin in about 30 minutes via a bullet train for about 60 RBM. In addition, upon arrival there is a shuttle bus, or a plethora of taxis, that take you directly to Mt. Huashan.

The Mountain From the base of the mountain, there are two places to start your ascent: the west peak cable car entrance or the north peak cable car entrance. Both require a shuttle bus from the ticket entrance. The cheaper and more popular route is to ascend from the north peak.

Once off the cable car, the real adventure begins.

Although I have experience hiking various mountains, never before have I encountered such a unique trail.

To begin, the majority of the mountain is pure rock made of hundreds of uneven “stairs” carved directly into the mountain. This of course is not always safe, especially in winter with ice and snow.

Furthermore, there are numerous stories of deaths

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"Changong Zhandao” Floating in Air Road Perhaps the most famous and photographed trail for visitors is the infamous Floating in Air Road. The path is described perfectly by its name, although it should be further noted as: “walking-on-rottedwood-planks-held-together-with-rusty-nails-abovethe-air.” The trail starts with the optional harness rental, which at 30 RMB was by far the most justifiable money I spent. The adventure and panic attack started almost immediately as I descended vertically down a cliff face via steel bars. Although I was attached, it was up to me to constantly detach and reattach my harness.

It was at this point where we met our angel, a.k.a.

Catwoman, who gave us the much-needed advice. Once you complete this ladder system, you reach the one-foot-wide wooden planks.

While the state of the rotting wooden planks is questionable, I found myself relieved to be walking horizontally again. I even felt comfortable enough at this stage to snap a few pictures of the incredible view. Take note, every step and movement you make on this plank should be slow and diligent.

After 15 minutes of “living on the edge,” you reach the other side to see a sacred Buddha cave and other religious objects. But the only way to get back is to walk the plank again.

Writer on Changong Zhandao “Floating in Air Road”

occurring every year on Mt. Huashan, but because of censorship, these accounts cannot be confirmed. For the majority of the hike, I felt safe; however, there were definitely precarious sections that should be handled with caution.

Mt. Huashan has the nicknames of “lotus” or “flower,” as its five peaks (North, South, Center, East and West) resemble a flower. If ascending hundreds of flights of stairs is not enough to take your breath away, the view from its summits are guaranteed too.

As one looks over the jagged rocks jutting from the landscape and weaving between white billows of clouds, you almost feel as if you are in a sacred painting. This enchanting feeling is only proliferated by the fact that you are constantly surrounded by ancient Taoist Temples and relics.

Another popular path is “Jinsuo Guan,” or the Golden Lock Gate. Here one can pass thousands of gold locks all individually placed along chains on both sides of the path. Attached to each lock is a bright red ribbon inscribed with prayers from previous hikers.

By the time we completed the plank walk, the sun was beginning to set, and my friend and I began sprinting down the mountain in fear we would miss the last cable car to the bottom at 8 p.m. We made it there at 7:50.

My only regret with this China trip was not spending more days at this beautiful mountain.

Even months later, I dream about seeing myself on Floating in Air Road yet again, telling myself to put one foot in front of the other and to breathe. Unlike reality, though, I wake up at the thought of falling. I murmur to myself to put peace in my heart and I fall soundly back to sleep.

Mt. Huashan Fees Entrance fee (2 Day Pass): 180 RMB Shuttle between ticket office to Cable Car (North Peak) (One way): 20 RMB Shuttle between ticket office to Cable Car (West Peak) (One Way): 40 RMB Cable Car to North Peak (One Way): 80 RMB Cable car to West Peak (One Way): 140 RMB Harness for Floating in Air Road: 30 RMB Bullet train from Xi'an Bei (North) Railroad Station: 60 RMB Slow train from Xi'an Railroad Station: 20 RMB Other transportation (Taxi or bus between mountain and train stations): 50 RBM-100 RMB Gwangju News June 2013

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photo essay

Japan: Legacy of the Tsunami Words and photos by Matt Furlane Photos shot on location at Ishinomaki (north of Sendai, Japan)

L

ast year at the 2012 Yeosu Expo in Korea, I was able to go to the Japan pavilion and see an animated film story about a boy who lost his parents in the 2011 tsunami and how Japan was rebuilding. After watching I wanted to go to the tsunami region and see for myself but feared getting radiation from the Fukushima meltdown. So I waited a year for things to calm down and went to Japan this past May and headed north by train to the tsunami region.

I went through several devastated small towns like Yamoto and got off at the fishing town of Ishinomaki, about 90 minutes north of Sendai station. Although some coastal areas were completely wiped out, Ishinomaki was recovering. At first I was nervous that the people would perceive me as a foreigner gawking at their suffering, but they were welcoming and seemed glad that a tourist was there.

I was able to walk freely around the town and did not see anything that showed there was a recent disaster.

There were restaurants, grocery markets, a tourist museum and displaced middle school students heading to the train station going to alternate schools.

Things looked normal, so I headed further into town toward the ocean front. As I got closer to the sea, I came across damaged buildings and homes marked for demolition. Further on some lots were nothing more than a foundation. And on these empty lots were the remnants of people's lives. I decided to quietly take pictures of what I saw.

I can find more dramatic images on the Internet of destruction or buses and boats resting on rooftops, but it is the small stuff that has more lasting impact for me.

Many people drowned in their hometowns or were washed out into the ocean never to be seen again. All that remains is the debris of their past lives.

Top: Damaged fishing boats resting show how far water reached inland.

Middle: A home washed out, with ghost-like curtains blowing in the wind Bottom: There were shoes in many lots. Who owned them? Did they survive?

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Older buildings were washed away or completely collapsed.

Lower portions of buildings were destroyed. Even second stories suffered damage.

Many homes remained standing but were too damaged to occupy.

As a kindergarten teacher, I found this heart-breaking. Hopefully the child survived.

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Photo of the Month

By Relja Kovic “In a purely technical sense, the picture was taken using a Nikon D90 and a lensbaby composer pro with the fisheye optic. I held the camera above my head, clicked the shutter and hoped for the best. Some technical details might not be interesting to people, but at least I provided them.

My name is Relja Kojic. I am a recent arrival in Gwangju, part of the most recent intake of EPIK teachers.

Photography is primarily a hobby for me at the moment, but I dream to change it into a full-time profession one day, economy willing, of course!

While I have not been around long enough to necessarily take advantage of the many services that the GIC offers, it struck me as an excellent opportunity to meet excellent individuals. Volunteering at the recent fund-raising events has been an honour and pleasure. I have seen nothing but excellent people working for an excellent cause. So I am happy to lend whatever skills I have in taking pictures in the effort to keep the GIC alive, so that future "waygookians" will be able to meet the same excellent people that I have.�

Photo taken at Save GIC Day event on May 4.

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photography

Why Your Equipment Matters Words and photos by Simon Bond Simon Bond is a professional photographer living in Suncheon, Jeollanam-do. He has travelled throughout Asia, and his work has been published in many publications.This and other articles will be available online through Simon's website: www.simonbondphotography.com

L

ast month I talked about some simple techniques to improve your photos with any kind of camera. This month I am going to take a look at the two main players in today's photography world: the smart phone and the dSLR camera.

The smart phone Today's smart phones are typically point and shoot.

They usually come with a basic camera app, but it is well worth searching for apps that can enhance the photos you take. The quality of the image is also high now; high enough for stock agencies like Getty images to start adding images from smart phones to their commercial libraries.

This shot is only possible with a fish-eye lens.

The great thing about a smart phone is it is small, as it fits in your pocket and you can take photos using it without drawing attention to yourself. These phones are also well set up to quickly upload and share your photos on social media platforms.

The dSLR With the convenience of a smart phone, why would you bother with using a dSLR camera?

The most obvious advantage to a dSLR is the ability to change lenses, with some lenses offering compositional options that simply do not exist with other cameras. The main lens options are the wideangle and the telephoto zoom.

A dSLR camera with a tripod is needed.

The next big advantage a dSLR camera has is how it performs at night. For instance, if you want to take a street portrait at nighttime with limited light, using a 50mm prime lens and a high ISO is possible.

Another choice with a dSLR camera is to use a tripod, which you could use to make night-time, long exposures of cityscapes.

Which type of camera is best for me?

This really depends on the type of photographer you are. Are you a street photographer who is quite spontaneous? A smart phone might be a good option because it is inconspicuous. The smart phone is also good for those everyday moments when simple compositional skills are only required.

If you really want to extend yourself as a photographer and really go for some more extreme photos, then you are going to need to get a dSLR camera with the full array of lenses.

Apps such as hipstamatic or instagram can enhance your images.

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food

Perspectives: Food Allergies in Korea, Part 1

By Kristal Lee Photos by Joey Nunez An elderly lady was admitted into the hospital I was working at one day. It was almost lunch time and, per standard, I asked if she was allergic to anything. She, probably all too honestly, responded, “Bananas and my husband when he's feeling frisky.” Trying to shake the mental image from my head and ignore the horrid parallels between her two responses, I chuckled and gave her a wristband that said BANANAS on it, indicating her allergy.

An hour or so later I checked on the woman. A young man sitting by her bed stood up smiling, glanced at the wristband and said, “I see you've met my mother.”

A

dvice was requested on the topic of food allergies because there are foreigners in Gwangju with food allergies and, well, having dietary restrictions in Korea can be somewhat of a daily struggle, if you are unaware of the surrounding food culture.

There are two types of people with food allergies; those who abide by very strict eating regulations (what I like to term “foodus operandi”) and those who find zen in channeling their inner Andrew Zimmern, whose philosophy fits somewhere along the lines of if it fits in your gullet, stick it in at least twice.

Gastronomical ascetic or not, allow me to present 32

Gwangju News June 2013

some points on food allergies within the Korean cultural context for you to digest.

Principally there are 4 methods in managing food allergies: Strict avoidance – As the name implies, “recognizing what triggers the food allergies and avoiding such ingredients in a meal or dish.”

Nutritional counseling – Dietary adjustments that serve a therapeutic role whereby a nurse, nutritional or dietician assesses eating patterns, identifies where change is needed and works to help the individual maintain those changes.

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Emergency treatment – After the allergic reaction has been triggered; treatments range from mild over-the-counter antihistamines for minor reactions, to injection of epinephrine, as well as a trip to the emergency room for severe reactions.

Resistance/Immuno therapy – The most recent and still experimental treatment; where antibodies or small, weakened (through heat) doses of the allergen are administered to build tolerance and reduce sensitivity.

Commonly foreigners with food sensitivity are discouraged from coming to Korea. Those who have visited or who live in Korea can be quick to give the country a bad rap when it comes to dining, and given that most transgressions take place on the Internet, their advice is often dished up with a heaping side of misunderstanding and bigotry, leaving it up to the knowledgeable few to set things straight.

First and foremost, the onus is on the individual.

There is no one held more accountable for your health than you, and having food allergies is not a disability if you understand your condition and the environment you are in. This is where going abroad can complicate things. Even though you are well aware of your allergies, you now find yourself in a new environment. All of a sudden, language barriers, unfamiliarity with the food and the host country's perception of food allergies become factors in determining your risk of allergic reaction.

Here in Part 1 of this two-series article, we will start by examining the cultural aspects of having a food allergy in Korea. This will help shape your perspective and set the backdrop for “Perspectives: Food Allergy in Korea, Part 2,” in next month's issue.

Culture and Perspective Because we are discussing being abroad with food allergies, understanding and observing the host culture has a lot of significance in determining your ability to avoid dangerous foods. It also puts things into perspective, giving your soul solace when trying to rationalize why there is a strip of ham in your “veggie” kimbab, or why people around you confuse your allergies for pickiness.

You could get upset and bump heads with people you encounter, or you could acknowledge that you are a visitor in a place with its own set of established social norms, food culture and national history. The latter option will ultimately help you integrate and better cope with food allergies.

First, Koreans may be unaware of your type of food allergies. If you look at the table below, you will see the top food allergens for Korea and the U.S. What you probably noticed is that NO items match (except for crab being included in the category “shellfish”), indicating that Koreans for the most part are affected by different foods than Americans (and people of cultures that reflect a Western diet).

Korea: Pupa, Honey, Tomato, Cherry, Celery, Crab, Chestnut, Kiwi, Shrimp USA: Peanut, Mil, Shellfish, Tree Nuts, Egg, Fin Fish*, Strawberry, Wheat, Soy *true fish, as opposed to other seafood, are harvested at fisheries Therefore, it is not that Koreans do not suffer from food allergies, which is a common misconception.

The triggers are just different. Knowing this fact frames why a soy or egg allergy would be foreign to a Korean person, in the way a pupa or honey allergy would sound foreign to an American. This unfamiliarity causes a range of reactions. People may not be understanding nor accepting, thinking you may be just picky or stubborn in not wanting to try new foods.

Friends or co-workers may even try to “test” you, so it is important to be blunt and maybe even over exaggerate the seriousness of your allergies: “I will die if I eat ANY _____.” It seems a little much but there is sometimes a disjunction if you do not make the statement as an absolute. For example, if you say you will get sick from eggs, people may take it to mean you will get a bad stomach ache, or they might think that only eating a full fried or boiled egg will make you sick, not the little bits in your bibimpap or the egg-wash used to seal your dumplings.

The definition of certain products is also culturally relative. You quite literally can see this principle manifested in the pink strip of ham in your supposedly-vegetarian kimbab, because ham, to some Koreans, is not considered a “meat.” If you ask a Korean what is in the dish, err on the safe side and do not take their responses at face value. Korean dishes generally have an ingredient list that goes on like Santa's naughty list and, many times, in their best efforts to be helpful, they will give a feign response rather than say, “I don't know” or “I'm not sure.” With this perspective in mind, please try not to be offended, be extremely clear and overtly upfront about your allergy and take the time to determine for yourself if a dish contains something unsafe for you.

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opinion

North Korea and the 'D' word Words and photos by Matt Furlane

I

t is June and all the rhetoric flowing out of Pyongyang has finally dissipated. After the usual threats that scare some foreigners back home and bore the average South Korean, everything has gone back to some semblance of normality.

That is except for one long English word – “Denuclearization.”

On December 31, 1991, after George Bush Sr. and Mikhail Gorbachev agreed to remove nuclear missiles from the Asian region, North and South Korea signed a joint declaration on denuclearization and agreed not to “test, manufacture, produce, receive, possess, store, deploy or use nuclear weapons” (www.armscontrol.org). South Korea kept its promise. North Korea did not. Why? In an April 2013 phone interview on America's NPR program “Morning Edition,” Professor Andrei Lankov from Seoul's Kookmin University stated: “Denuclearization of North Korea is not going to happen, period. They need it for security. They need it for blackmail. Every year, they get about 800,000 tons of free food. And how do they push countries into shipping this aid? Well, largely by appearing to be dangerous, and then suggesting a compromise. So nukes are a vital tool of their blackmail diplomacy. They're not going to surrender it.”

And the North Korean newspaper the Rodong Sinmnun confirmed this analysis in April stating: “There may be talks between us and the United States for the sake of arms reduction, but there will never be talks for denuclearization. Our position is clear. Never dream of denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.”

If this rhetoric holds true, America has a problem.

This past April, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said: “And it is logical that if the threat of North Korea disappears because the peninsula denuclearizes, then obviously that threat no longer mandates that kind of posture [U.S. missile defense deployment]. But there have been no agreements, no discussions, there is nothing actually on the table with respect to that” (Reuters News).

And more recently after a fruitful meeting this May 34

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President Kim Jong-un

North Korean missiles

with President Park Geun-hye, President Obama stated: “If Pyongyang thought its recent threats would drive a wedge between South Korea and the United States or somehow garner the North international respect, today is further evidence that North Korea has failed again. President Park and myself very much share the view that we are going to maintain a strong deterrent, we're not going to reward provocative behavior” (Reuters, May 11).

So what are we going to do? South Korea, America, Japan and even China are all tired of the old way of doing things. In my opinion, North Korea needs to embrace change either by peaceful choice or by unwilling force. My hope is that recent reports of Pyongyang allowing cell phones, micro-brewed beer, high heel shoes and Disney characters into the culture are signs of peace and all the military blather is a rhetorical vestige of a fading past. North Korea should embrace the “D” word and end this outdated, decades-old covert/overt push to obtain (and sell) nuclear weapons and technology, because international patience with destabilizing brinkmanship is starting to wear thin.

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travel

My Korea My Korea is a column which represents the voice of young Korean University students eager to share their stories and experiences.

Wolchul Mountain Words and photos by Kim Myoung-jin

W

olchul Mountain is located in Yeongam county. Wolchul means “rising moon.” So it is the mountain of the rising moon. Since the mountain resembles Geumgang Mountain, it was called Sogeumgang in Honam. Sogeumgang means small Geumgang Mountain. The summit of Wolchul Mountain is Chunhwang Peak. Its altitude is 806 m. There is also Gujeong Peak. Because there are nine fountains, the peak's name is Gujeong Peak. Gujeong Peak has a legend that a dragon lives there.

At Wolchul Mountain there is a three-story stone pagoda. Behind the big stone pagoda is a statue of the Buddha. This is a Maaeyeorae seated statue, the national treasure Number 144. Its height is over 8 m. And its altitude is 600 m. It is the highest national treasure. At the place of this seated statue, the Yeongsan River can be seen.

It is a very beautiful mountain. And the mountain has valuable national treasures. I love Wolchul Mountain, but that is not the only reason why. Two years ago, after being discharged from military service, I started studying for admission into university. But studying was very hard for me and my score into college was not satisfactory.

Naturally my stress increased and I could not stand

it. Then Wolchul Mountain came across my mind.

So I climbed Wolchul Mountain.

The first time I hiked it, it was very tough because Wolchul Mountain is a rocky mountain. But I kept going. Then I could see the dignity and the beauty of the mountain. After descending, my worry melted. I felt that Wolchul Mountain took my worries away from me. So I was and still am very thankful to Wolchul Mountain.

That year, though, I could not gain admission into university. Again my mind was full of worries. So I climbed again with my friends. And finally, I was admitted to the university of my choice. Now, to me, Wolchul Mountain is my advisor, my friend, my counselor and my supporter. So Wolchul Mountain is my place.

Wolchul Mountain National Park 월출산 국립공원 Website: http://wolchul.knps.or.kr/ Directions: From the Gwangju Bus Terminal, take a bus to Yeongam (frequency: every 20-50 minutes; duration 1 hour and 20 minutes), then from the Yeongam Bus Terminal, you can either take bus to Dogapsa (duration 20 minutes, fare 1,250 won, taxi 11,000 won) or to Cheonhwangsa (duration 10 minutes, fare 1,100 won or taxi 5,000 won). Both are entrances to Wolchul Mountain National Park.

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community

[This Month for the GIC Talk]

Visible Connections: Linking

birds, people and the world together Words and photo by Nial Moores

D

id you ever catch a glimpse of the shining iridescence in a Magpie's tail? Or wonder about the meaning of white cranes painted in gnarled pines? Or want to get involved with conservation of the natural world around you? If so, then the GIC talk on June 22 might well be for you!

The talk is based in a simple belief: watching birds can be fun, educational and at times also deeply spiritual – helping us all to feel more connected to, and more caring of, our natural world.

This sense of connection is helping to drive the growth in popularity of birdwatching around the world. An astonishing 46 million people in the USA now consider themselves to be birdwatchers. In the U.K. too, six million people (about one in ten of the population) enjoy birdwatching and membership of the nation's largest bird conservation organization (the RSPB) already exceeds a million.

Here in the Republic of Korea (ROK), the number of birdwatchers is also growing, albeit more slowly.

Founded in 2004, Birds Korea (새와 생명의 터) is the Korean non-profit organization (NPO) dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats here in Korea and in the wider region. Still small, Birds Korea nonetheless has an increasing number of members throughout the country and overseas, taking part in education programs, conducting research or simply sharing their knowledge and passion with others.

Somewhat similar to the GIC as an NPO, Birds Korea works actively to build connections between people, both within the ROK and across nations.

There are many reasons for this. Paramount is the understanding that we all share but one world – Earth – and that more than 90 percent of Korean bird species are migratory. The conservation of migratory birds needs the understanding and support of people both here and “overseas.”

By way of example, the baueri Bar-tailed Godwit (큰 뒷 부 리 도 요 ) is a pigeon-sized, sword-billed shorebird. Hardly a well-known species, this bird 36

Gwangju News June 2013

The writer on a survey at Songdo, Incheon

comes to Korea each year in March and April. It does so by undertaking a single enormous nonstop flight from New Zealand and eastern Australia.

After refueling here, it then flies on to Alaska for summer. A few short months later, the same birds then fly non-stop for more than 10,000 km across open ocean all the way back to New Zealand!

There, they put back on the body fat that they require to power their northward migration back to Korea the following spring. This extreme feat of migration is only possible if the chain of tidal-flat sites that Bar-tailed Godwits use during the whole year is maintained. The same is true of numerous other species.

This understanding (and love of this bird) has already helped to connect researchers, birdwatchers and conservationists in countries all along the Bar-tailed Godwit's migration route. We believe that that if people can have the chance to connect with such beauty and natural perfection, then love of birds and their habitats will soon follow after – and so too the desire for conservation of nature.

If you are interested in learning more, please visit Birds Korea's websites (www.birdskorea.org for English and www.birdskorea.or.kr for Korean) and please come to the GIC Talk on Saturday, June 22.

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[ GIC Talk ] Schedule for June Time & Place: Every Saturday, 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., GIC office (Jeon-il Bldg 5th Fl.) For more information visit www.gic.or.kr or contact gic@gic.or.kr Check out pictures from previous GIC Talks at http://picasaweb.google.com/gictalk Watch highlight clips of previous GIC Talks at www.youtube.com/GICTALK There is now an open discussion group following every talk in which the audience can talk about the day's topic with the speaker.

GIC Talk welcomes your proposals for presentations on topics such as society, culture, politics, science, education or any topic of interest. If you would like to be a presenter, please contact us at gictalk@gmail.com / +82-(0)62-226-2734 June 1 Speakers: Professor Maria Lisak Topic: Weightloss Story Maria shares her story by talking about food culture, diabetes diagnoses, pharmaceutical culture, retreat culture, fasting programs, raw food culture, green culture and a “pop” solution for weight maintenance. She will share how she lost weight fast and has kept it off while living in Korean society.

June 8 Speaker: Jonathan Brenner Topic: The European Union The European Union (EU) is a supranational organization that has been continuously evolving for nearly 60 years. In that time, its development has expanded from its original intention of issues of international trade to present-day issues like human rights and environmental issues. This presentation will provide a solid foundation to the governmental institutions of the EU, the historical development of the EU, the relationship between the EU and its member states and present-day problems the EU is facing. Do not miss this fascinating talk that will introduce and educate the audience about the largest customs union in the world!

June 15 Speaker: Amanda Serrano Topic: Contemporary Art: Some Philosophy, A Dash of History, and the Nitty-Gritty What is Contemporary Art? Much controversy and a wide range of opinions surround the subject of art – Contemporary Art in particular. Have you ever found yourself in a gallery or museum staring at a painting or installation, trying to understand it and all you can think of is: “I could do that?” You are not alone! The world of Contemporary Art raises many interesting questions such as: What is art? As well as what is value, beauty and the role of the artist in society? This talk will explore philosophical questions of art, review selected contemporary artists and discuss some of the unique joys and challenges facing emerging artists today.

Bar-tailed godwits in Geum Estuary

June 22 Speaker: Nial Moores Topic: Visible Connections (See preview on page 36) June 29 Speaker: Michelle Lee Jones Topic: Accountability for the Past, Rights for the Future: The 3rd Single Moms' Day This GIC talk will present resources, information and media from Single Mom's Day International Conference, which was held May 10-11 at the National Assembly. Topics will include: family policy in Korea, social attitudes toward unwed parents and their children, recent research on adoption policy and the significance of the Amendment to the Special Adoption Law, UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the birth registration system in Korea, discussion of child support fulfillment, discussion from the “Human Library” Event, NGO collaboration to promote human rights (such NGOs include: Dandelions, TRACK, KUMFA, Korean Single Parent Alliance, Seoul Single Parent Alliance, KoRoot, KUMSN, Seoul Single Parent Family Support Center, Korean Center for United Nations Human Rights Policy and Grassroots Women's Center) and recent publications such as an educational comic book on human rights. For additional information about Single Moms' Day please visit www.adoptionjustice.com Gwangju News June 2013

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event preview

[GIC Culture Tour] GIC Culture Tour

Boseong

Words and photos by Warren Parsons Date: June 22, 2013 (Sat.) Price: GIC Members 60,000 won /Non-members 70,000 won Itinerary: Mongjung Dawon and Tea Shop - The Ceramic Studio of Hong Seong-il - Lunch at Yulpo Beach - Seonso Fishing Village Clam Digging Experience Registration: Please sign up at the GIC website (www.gic.or.kr) by June 16 (Sun.) For more information: gictour@gic.or.kr

J

une brings summer warmth and the long cool evenings of the solstice. Peak travel season has yet to begin and it is a great time to escape the city for the countryside and the coast.

This month the GIC Culture Tour visits the tourist mecca, Boseong.

Boseong is synonymous with green tea, and of course it is a prerequisite to visit one of the great tea plantations soaring above the sea. Tea has been cultivated in Boseong since the Japanese colonial period due to its ideally warm southern climate and cooling coastal breezes. The signature hedgerows of tea, arranged for quick mechanized harvesting to ensure an intense green tea color, attract hordes of tourists, thanks to great marketing and cameos in Korean dramas and films.

Mongjung Dawon, however, is one of the lesservisited plantations and restricts visitors to protect the organic tea from prying hands and incidental litter. The factory and tea shop sit below the fields in a charming cypress forest where participants can enjoy a few cups of cool green tea after a leisurely stroll through the tea trees with one of the tea makers.

Nearby the Dawon (green tea plantation) is the studio of Hong Seong-il, a professional ceramic artist. Originally, from Seoul, Seong-il came to Boseong to learn about Korea's traditional earthenware called Ong-gi. After studying with local masters, he set up his own workshop overlooking the beautiful farmland of Boseong.

Seong-il specializes in shino-glazed porcelain, and as a young artist, he is always experimenting with new forms and colors. Particularly, he is interested in the changes that can occur in the kiln, especially when variables such as seashells and 38

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The Ceramic Studio of Hong Seong-il

Yulpo Beach

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3

Rows of green tea fields in Boseong

soda ash are added to the intense heat. Seong-il will explain the process from the clay to the potter's wheel, as well as demonstrate the glazing and firing process. Participants are able to hand dip their own cups in a choice of several glaze colors, and to help arrange the wares on trays before entering the kiln.

Afterwards, the pieces will be delivered to the GIC for pick up the following week so that everyone will own an original work of art, shaped by the artist but finished with his or her own hands!

From Hong's studio, the tour will transfer by bus to Yulpo Beach for lunch where participants can try a local specialty: “green tea pork.” This novel dish is made from the meat of pigs that have eaten antioxidant rich tea leaves. The idea is that healthy pigs make more nutritious and more flavorful meat, which is better for the consumer. After lunch there will be a quick stop at a convenience store where participants can stock up on snacks, drinks or ice cream for the last part of the tour, a lovely coastal drive and an afternoon at the beach digging for clams!

Seonso fishing village is tucked into a little cove with a small beach and a couple of pavilions overlooking the sea. The tour will arrive at low tide and participants can change their clothes and gather their tools for harvesting “bajirak” clams in the mud. Each person is allowed up to one kilogram of clams to take home to make delicious soups or stir-fry dishes. Clams also make for especially good, and in this case fresh, seafood pasta. Participants should hurry though, as the tide can rise quickly covering the prime clam beds, which should inspire an afternoon swim. After the experience, participants can relax, rinse off their clams and sandy bodies and get ready for the drive back to Gwangju.

Please come out for some fun in the sun, crackling glazes and waves of tea trees with the GIC Culture Tour!

Since we will spend the afternoon outdoors at the beach, please bring the appropriate clothing and accessories, such as: hats, long sleeves, bathing suits, sun block, sun glasses, sandals, towels and a change of clothing.

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culture

Behind the Myth: Exploring Korean Tradition This series of articles will shed light on some Korean myths, folklore, traditions and superstitions. Every country has their own share of beliefs, fact or fiction, and many foreigners living in Korea are yet to hear or understand the basis of various Korean beliefs as they become apparent.

Orange Finger Tips

By Stephen Redeker

H

ave you ever noticed that many Korean children, women and some men have orange dyed fingertips? It's obviously not nail polish; the whole fingertip and nail has been stained with an iodine/orange color. When questioned about why their fingers look that way, Korean children usually don't have an adequate answer. After reading this article, you won't have to ask them anymore.

In the summertime, usually around August, it's a tradition to dye your fingertips (and toenails for some) with the garden balsam flower, called bongsungah (봉숭아). This is a flower that grows abundantly during the summer months. A powder can also be bought and used instead. The flowers are picked and mashed in a bowl until it becomes a colorful paste. Sometimes salt is used in the mix.

The fingertips are coated, wrapped in plastic, and left that way overnight. In the morning, the mixture is washed off and the color on the fingers remains.

Some people use clear nail polish to brighten the color. As the summer months fade into fall, so does the orange color from the fingers.

Koreans enjoy keeping old traditions alive. In the

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Gwangju News June 2013

past, it was believed these flowers would ward off evil spirits and diseases. It was most likely used as a nail polish, and a dye for clothes in Korea as well as in China. The myth that coincides with this practice goes something like this: If the color on your fingers remains until the first snow of winter, then you will find and marry your true love. Today, it's mostly done for fun.

Now that you understand this Korean tradition, perhaps you would be interested in trying it out for yourself? Imagine the look on those cute faces of Korean children when they spot your orange fingertips. Although it may not really help keep the evil spirits away, it could have other benefits.

Orange dyed nails are a small price to pay for finding that special someone and living happily ever after.

With information and daughterofkorea.blogspot.kr

photo

from

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culture

Korean Sayings This series of articles will explore traditional Korean phrases and provide background information associated with these words. Every country possess terminology that uniquely shows the country’s identity, so these articles, written by a Korean, brings to light words from history.

多多益善

vs 過有不及 The More the Better VS Too Much is As Bad As Too Little

By Lee Yuni

D

called '過 有 不 及 ’ Gwa-yu-bulgeup.” “Gwa” means “too much,” “yu” means “rather,” “bul” means “not” and “geup” means “to reach.” All together it means that “too much is as bad as too little.” It goes back to the age of Confucius, and here is a conversation with his follower, Jagong.

a-da-ik-seon (多 多 益 善 ) is a popular Korean four-character idiom, originally from China. Both of the “da”s mean “a lot,” “ik” means “to add” or “more” and “seon” means “better” or “good,” which all together means “the more, the better.”

The historical background goes back to B.C. The hero, Yubang, who unified a whole country after defeating Hangwoo, was talking about personalities of others with Han-shin, the famous general.

Ja-gong: Sir, which one is better between Ja-jang and Ja-ha?

Confucius: Ja-jang is too much and Ja-ha is too little.

Ja-gong: Then, is Ja-jang the better one?

Confucius: Too much is as bad as too little.

Suddenly, Yubang asked him a question, “How many soldiers do you think I will be able to lead?” He answered with a clear voice, “Well, not more than about 100,000 soldiers.”

Confucius

Yubang felt unhappy with the answer and asked again, “Alright, then how many soldiers can you lead?” He answered, “'Dada-ik-seon' – 'the more the better.'”

He got annoyed again and replied sarcastically, “Then, why did you become my subordinate, even if you have such an excellent ability?”

Han-shin said, “There is a special reason. I am just able to command soldiers, but you can even lead generals. That is the reason that I decided to become your subordinate.”

As an opposite expression, there is one saying

*Ja-jang and Ji-ha are subordinates of Confucius.

Many Koreans still use these idioms in a daily life. For example, the more money we have, the more we could live a comfortable life.

But at the same time, if we have too much money, sometimes it will bother our lives as well. Also, our bodies need some salt but too much could also be a problem and cause diseases. On the other hand, the more we express thanks and love to friends, the better relationships we are able to have.

One thing we need to remember is to keep the balance between “Da-da-ik-seon” and “Gwa-yubul-geup.” Now, which one do you want to use more in your life?

Gwangju News June 2013

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fashion

Fash-On with xxl jjdp By jjdp Photos by Alex Hong, Model: Annie Ahn

Anything Goes T

his summer, dress any way you want to, because it is finally here! It only took about eight months. So enjoy the heat, but I guess in about one month from now, we will all be wishing it was a tad cooler. But, never mind that, just get ready for fun in the summer sun being the best and brightest you can be with classical shapes and fitting for summer.

Classics never go out of style. So invest in quality fabrics and they will last for seasons.

For casual classics think polo shirts, bright colors and fitted styles. Also do not forget about fine plaids and indulge in the atmosphere of lazy summer afternoons.

The key for summer dressing is to keep it simple but be bold and this year: anything goes. Simply do not care, throw caution to the summer zephyr and mix and match.

From bright oranges and acid blues, to patterns, stripes and fun prints, your wardrobe is your playground.

So where can you find all of this wholesome, bold, bright and fun goodness? None other than Tommy Hilfiger! Known as the king of urban fashion and particularly specializing in 'Hamptons chic,' the brand caters for anyone aged one to 100. Good thing then that the new store downtown has been revamped and is stocked with all the summer essentials.

I have always loved Hilfiger for its use of classic shapes and colors. The luxurious basics are a must for every wardrobe and are easily interchanged and layered for a refined look. The casual collections for this brand usually use neutrals like white, beige, navy and red, but for this summer, they have upped the sporty preppy attitude with more naval inspired prints. Think anchors, surfboards and hibiscus flowers.

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Gwangju News June 2013

June2013 2013.5.2711:23AM Page43

I have chosen some simple but classical looks. First for men, there are printed swimming trunks that can be worn from the pool or beach to afternoon drinks. It is a little shorter than regular board shorts and it comes in interesting patterns and designs.

This can be paired with a plain polo t-shirt or with a bright and contrasting cotton shirt. For girls, try a red, blue and white striped skirt with a sleeveless cotton button-down.

Stripes are always cool and calming in summer and a classical navy inspired-look always works. So for everyone out there, invest in a bold striped shirt and you can wear this with blue jeans and a white t-shirt, and class it up with something red. This is a classic combo that will last you all summer.

Then there is also a patch-work plaid that is a favored trend all summer long. It is relaxed and exudes beach house charm. It works well for both males and females, and with so much variety, why not get a few in different colors? Also because it is an international brand, chances are you are likely to find larger sizes as well.

Round off your look with a shoe must for the summer. Enter the casual espadrille: a simple flat canvas summer shoe that is super comfy and goes with just about anything. What is more, it can be worn from spring through autumn. There are also a variety of other sandal styles for men and women to get your toes ready for some summer air.

Finally, while out in the sun, do not forget your sunscreen. It is the number one protector from the harmful UV rays as well as the number one antiwrinkle preventer out there. So ensure that even if you are just in the sun for a little while, you still stay protected.

Peace, xxl jjdp Shot on location at the Tommy Hilfiger store, downtown Gwangju near the post office towards the direction of Wedding Street. All clothing is available from Tommy Hilfiger, ranging from 80,000 won to 200,000 won.

GIVEAWAY! Tommy Hilfiger is giving away three

20,000 won vouchers to three lucky readers of Fash-on with xxljjdp to be used in their store downtown. All you have to do is send us a 10-word description of your summer style, along with your name.

Entries can be submitted to: gwangjunews@gmail.com.

Winners will be contacted privately.

Gwangju News June 2013

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literature

Poems by Shin Byong-eun Translated by Song Chae-Pyong and Anne Rashid

Shin Byong-eun (1955 - ) was born in Changnyong, Gyongsangnam-do. His poetry collections include Blades of Grass with Wind, Greeting the Vegetable Morning, The Sleep of Grasses on the Other Side of the River, How to Fire Wind, and The Scenery of Poems and Paintings. He was awarded the Jeonnam Poetry Award, the Yeosu Arts and Culture Award, and the Hanryo Literary Award. Currently he teaches at Yeosu Information Science High School and serves as a chairperson of Yeosu Branch of the Federation of Arts and Culture Organizations of Korea.

Fingerprints of Wind: Odong-do

by Shin Byong-eun Wind pushes up wind.

Today I carefully and slowly open the sound of wind, accompanying the forest's white wind, remnants of wind that have lingered for thousands of years.

The chastity she traded to throw her body like a falling petal into wind has bloomed into a camellia and her tale has become wind.

Yes, in the fresh blood red camellia I can see the road.

A footstep becomes the heart, and the heart becomes a road.

All over the sky and the earth these flowers have bloomed, and in the depth of every wind these flowers have bloomed.

바람의 지문-오동도/ 신병은 바람이 바람을 밀어올려요 몇 천 년을 맴돌아온 바람의 퇴적, 나는 오늘 숲속 하얀 바람과 동행하며 조심스럽게 천천히 바람 소리를 열어봅니다 꽃잎처럼 몸을 던진 정절이 동백으로 피었고 설화 속의 물길이 바람이 되었어요 그랬어요 동백꽃 빨간 선혈 속에 길이 보여요 발길이 마음 되고 마음이 길이 되는, 하늘에도 땅에도 온통 꽃이 피었어요 바람의 깊이마다 꽃이 피었어요 Camellias in Odong-do

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Yeoja-do, Lady Island by Shin Byong-eun The woman who does her make-up in the sunlight makes the water flutter in the morning; she wanders around the sea in front of Hyonchon and Sagok, with a bare midriff at midday, and comes back to lie down toward the sky in the evening.

When her longing deepens, she unties her waist to flow as a wave and boards a ferryboat going to heaven.

여자도 아침이면 물기 파닥이는 햇살로 화장을 하고 한낮에는 배꼽티를 입고 현천 사곡 앞 바다를 배회하다 저녁이면 돌아와 하늘 향해 눕는 그 여자 그러다 그리워지면 가슴 언저리를 풀어 물살로 흐르다 하늘로 가는 나룻배에 오르는 그 여자

The Gnarled Tree by Shin Byong-eun To become wholly a part of you is to harden the white wind that has stormed together, shaken the core, and slipped through the top of my head.

To build a strong house on the edge of the wind is part of the scar I must never forget.

Windmills on the beach

옹이/ 신병은 진정으로 그대의 한 부분이 되는 일은 오랜 세월 떼 지어 다니며 중심을 흔들다 정수리를 빠져나간 하얀 바람 소리를 다지는 일이다 잊어서는 안 될 상처의 한 부분을 위해 그 바람의 기슭에 단단한 집을 짓는 일이다

Translators Brief Biography Chae-Pyong Song was an associate professor of English at Marygrove College in Detroit, Michigan, where he taught from 2001 to 2012. He published articles on modern fiction, as well as translations of Korean poetry and fiction. His translations of Korean literature have appeared in Gwangju News, The Korea Times, New Writing from Korea, Illuminations, Metamorphoses: Journal of Literary Translation and Azalea: Journal of Korean Literature and Culture. Along with Anne Rashid, he won the Grand Prize in the Poetry Category of the 40th Modern Korean Literature Translation Awards for translating Kim Hyesoon's poems. His fields of interest included twentieth-century English literature, postcolonial literature, translation studies and globalization of culture. He passed away in February of 2013.

Anne M. Rashid is an assistant professor of English at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

She and Chae-Pyong Song received the 40th Korean Literature Translation Award in Poetry Translation given by The Korea Times. She and Song have published translations in New Writing from Korea, list, Gwangju News, Azalea: Journal of Korean Literature, Women's Studies Quarterly and Illuminations.

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[CROSSWORD]

By Mike Schroeder

[Across] 3 5 7 9 11 12 16 18 20 22 24 25 26 27 29 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 46

Something to strike Found in engines Where a guest may rest Reaction to cute 1993 movie co-written by Quentin Tarantino Corner piece “___ your loss!”

Magna _____ What you give when you have no money Twerpz and Strawz candy brand Bowler, for one Equivalent to five houses in Monopoly Teacher’s favorite The boss “ ____! What is it good for” Rat- _____ One who follows the dead Stout _____ Draw City of Light Singer Franklin Snorkleing site Had been One of eight in a cup Gwangju News June 2013

[Down] 1 2 3 4 6 8 10 13 14 15 17 19 21 23 28 30 31 33 35

Facades Doctrines Classic magic trick Stumble “The West Wing” Emmy nominee Friend Stafleet uniform wearers Formally name Work behind bars Actor honored with a memorial statue in Hong Kong The 12th largest economy in the world Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey 1991 Having no active leads Cheech of “Cheech and Chong” DOJ branch No name brand Highest grossing movie of all time Carpe ___ Rolaids rival

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[CROSSWORDS] Last Month’s Answers Across 2 5 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 17 18

Ripest Repoman Election Soon Dormitory Toddy Powers Benefits Ash SWM Skirt

Down 1 3 4 6 7 8 12 13 15

Twins Excerpt NSync Ecuador Victorian Enermous Ports Ranges Sons

Gwangju News Wish List Feel free to contact us with your interest and ideas to be involved!

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Gwangju News June 2013

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language teaching

The Times, They Are A-Changing

By Dr. David Shaffer Photo courtesy of KOTESOL

W

ith time, one tends to look back into the past and compare how things were “back then” with the way they are now – sometimes lamenting how much better things were back then and sometimes lauding how much better things are now. I confess that I, too, am guilty of this, and prove it here by presenting a number of examples of how English language teaching has improved since I began teaching English in Korea at university level in the mid 1970s.

To begin my first semester of teaching English Education majors, I was told that I first needed a textbook. I was taken to the local bookstore to select a text so that copies could be ordered. As for choices of conversational English courses, there were a grand total of two. One was English 900, a six-book series whose “typical study unit begins with the presentation of the fifteen Base Sentences together with Intonation patterns.” Its Q&A section was actually a matching exercise, and its Substitution Drills section “provides the pronunciation practice and drill material needed for the mastery of language forms.” It was originally published by Collier MacMillan in 1964.

The second choice was Spoken American English, a three-book series by William L. Clark, originally published by the University of California in 1956.

This text used what was called the “mim-mem” method (mimic and memorize) for sentence pattern practice.

Both English 900 and Spoken American English espoused pattern practice through intensive drilling. They were both products of the Audiolingual Method, a language teaching methodology born out of the Second World War and, by the 1970s, very quickly falling out of favor for its ineffectiveness in providing results. However, the method and the books gained popularity in Japan and Korea, and being copied extensively

by Japanese and Korean publishing companies (legally, I might add, because of the absence of related copyright laws). I chose English 900; it was said to be more popular.

I would have loved to have had the luxury of 48

Gwangju News June 2013

choosing from the present-day variety of course books now available from international ELT materials publishers and based on Communicative Language Teaching and Task-Based Learning. My English 900 was a course book only. There were no accompanying cassette tapes, no teacher's guide and no glossy pages with colored pictures. After a year of focusing on listen-and-repeat drills, my students and their teacher were pretty much tired of drills and more drills. I looked for a better book for my advanced students, something more interesting and more useful. I finally decided on Essential Idioms in English, a popular book of 500 idioms by Robert J. Dixon that was published by Longman. Flop! It was just too difficult for the students to wrap their heads around the meaning and use of the idioms. And getting students to produce a sentence with an idiom in it was like pulling teeth. I wish I had realized then that most of one's lessons did not need to come straight from the book and that the whole class did not need to be doing the same thing at the same time. If I had

June2013 2013.5.2711:23AM Page49

only been aware of the benefits of pair work and group work.

Again, I was in the search for a suitable course book and found a little-known book entitled The Way to English, consisting of situations and fill-inthe-blank exercises. I worked with this for a while, constantly wishing that there was something better available. Then videocassette-playing equipment became available at my school, and we were pushed to somehow video-in-conversation courses. I got access to a complete set of video lessons produced by the USIS (United States Information Service) and started using these video lessons in class. This made life easier for me as the teacher was in the video. My students repeated or spoke when the video asked them to. My role was limited to a short review of the video material at the end of class time. I began to question my role as a teacher. Nevertheless, the department was pleased that they were able to offer English classes using the most modern technology. When The Blue Lagoon, starring Brooke Shields, became available, I incorporated it into my classes, showing an extended portion of the movie in class and ending with a number of comprehension check questions.

If I had known then what I know now about using video in the classroom, I would have used movies much differently. I did not know then because the information was not yet available – much of it was yet to be developed. With today's Internet, ELT information from abroad becomes almost instantly available in Korea: webcasts bring presentations into your room in real time; academic journals are available online as soon as they are published, books can be ordered online even before they are published. Back then, it literally took years for ELT information to trickle into Korea from the other side of the Pacific and beyond.

While I have lamented the state of affairs with regards to ELT materials and knowledge available in past decades, I thoroughly enjoyed my students.

While over two-thirds of Korea's college-age population now attend institutions of higher learning, less than 15 percent went on to higher education in 1975. Then it was Korea's “best and brightest” who were attending the nation's universities, and they were a treat to work with.

They were eager to learn and applied themselves well to their studies. Moreover, they were very well mannered. When I would walk into the classroom, the class would automatically become quiet, and I would be welcomed with a clean blackboard – not because the previous teacher had erased it, but because the students had taken it upon themselves to wipe it clean. They were helpful in so many ways, even going out of their way to flag down a taxi for me at the end of the day.

With the coming of the 1980s, the quotas on university student enrollments were raised across the board. This meant that an increasingly larger proportion of high school graduates would have the opportunity to receive a university education.

It also meant that the average student aptitude levels would decrease, for every university, as the student quotas increased. Courses and curricula needed to be adjusted downwards to accommodate the changing aptitude level. The change was not only scholastic. When I walked into the classroom, quiet did not come as quickly or as easily, and the chalkboard that greeted me was still adorned with the previous teacher's notes and garnished with student scribblings. Students would still run out to catch taxis when I was waiting for one, but now they would be catching taxis for themselves rather than waiting their turn.

Indeed, the times have changed in Korea's world of ELT, and for sure they are still a-changing. A more highly educated populace is a good thing, and the changes that have taken place in ELT during my time here have been quite phenomenal. With the rate of change quickening at the pace that it is, one can only predict that advances in ELT methods and techniques, along with classroom materials and professional development, will also occur more rapidly than ever before.

Gwangju-Jeonnam Monthly Chapter Meeting Date & Time: June 8 (Saturday), 1:30 pm Place: Chosun University, Main Building, Left Wing Featured Workshops: o Storybook Reading and Storytelling (Eul Soon Lee: Gwangju Dongun Elem. School) o Injecting Interest into Intensive Reading Activities (Henry Gerlits: Jeonnam Educational Training Institute) Swap-Shop: Share your teaching ideas and activities.

Admission: No Charge Facebook: Gwangju-Jeonnam KOTESOL Website: http://koreatesol.org/gwangju Email: gwangju@koreatesol.org Twitter: @GwangjuKOTESOL

David E. Shaffer is the current President of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter of Korea TESOL (KOTESOL).

On behalf of the Chapter, he invites you to participate in the teacher development workshops at their monthly meetings and special events.

Dr. Shaffer is a professor of English at Chosun University, where he has taught graduate, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses for many years. He is a long-time member of KOTESOL and holder of various positions. He is also the recipient of the KOTESOL Lifetime Achievement Award.

Gwangju News June 2013 49

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language study

Send Out Your Post!

Words and photo by Jannies Le

Customer:

image from Cafe24

안녕하세요?

(Annyeonghaseyo?)

Hi! 항공 우편으로 미국에 이 소포를 보내 주세요.

(Hanggong upyeoneuro Miguk-e i sopo-reul bonaejuseyo ) I would like to send this to America by air mail. 속달로 보내고 싶어요.

(Sokdalro bonaego sipeoyo.)

I would like express delivery. 큰 상자 있어요?

(Keun sangja isseoyo?)

Do you have a big box? 작은 상자 있어요?

(Jakeun sangja isseoyo?)

Do you have a small box? 얼마예요?

(Eolmayeyo?)

How much is it? 배송기간이 얼마나 걸리나요?

(Baesong gigani eolmana geolrinayo?)

How long will it take to be delivered?

속달 (Sokdal) By express delivery 배 (Bae) By boat

VOCABULARY 주소 (Juso) Address 우표 (Upyo) Stamp 우체국 (Ucheguk) Post Office 우편물번호 (Upyeonmul beonho) Tracking Number 우편 (Upyeon) Mail* *You will see this on one of the waiting number paper machines.

미국 우표 한 장 주세요 (Miguk woopyo hanjang juseyo.)

One stamp for America please.

Exchange one for: 두 (Du) two, 세 (Se) three, 네 (Ne) Four, or 한장 (Hanjang) One Sheet

이 주소의 우편번호가 뭐예요?

(I-juso-eu woopyeon beonhoga mwoyeyo?)

What's the zip code for this address? 제 가방을 박스에 넣어 보낼 수 있어요?

(Je gabangeul bakseu-e neoh-o bonael-su-isseoyo?)

Can you fit my suitcase into a box? 상자 안에 깨지기 쉬운 물건이 들어 있어요.

(Sangja ane ggaejigi siun mulgeoni deuleo itseoyo.)

The box should be marked as“fragile.” 감사합니다!

(Gamsahamnida!)

Thank you!

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Gwangju News June 2013

COUNTRIES 남아프리카 (Nam Apeurika) South Africa 호주 (Hoju) Australia 캐나다 (Kaenada) Canada 필리핀 (Phillipin) Philippines 뉴질랜드 (Nyujillaendeu) New Zealand 아일랜드 (Aillaendeu) Ireland 인도네시아 (Indonesia) Indonesia 영국 (Yeongguk) United Kingdom 중국 (Jungguk) China 일본 (Ilbon) Japan

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language study

Words and photos by Sun Hyunwoo There are a lot of interesting idiomatic expressions that stem from cultural backgrounds and are difficult to translate literally. Every month in collaboration with「Talk to Me in Korean」, you can read about some fun and useful Korean expressions.

입을 모으다

[i-beul mo-eu-da]

Literal translation: to gather mouths, to put mouths together Actual usage: to say something in chorus, to say something unanimously, to share the same opinion 입 [ip] means "mouth" and 모으다 [mo-eu-da] means “to collect” or “to gather.” By saying that people gather their mouths or put their mouths together (it could sound like a romantic situation where they are kissing each other), the actual usage is far from that. This is a fixed expression that describes how people are expressing the same opinion about a certain matter. So when people agree on something unanimously and all say the same thing, you can say that they have “put their mouths together” since, figuratively, their opinions are in one place. 입을 모으다 is more commonly used with compliments than criticism or just general evaluation of things. This expression is usually used in the form “입을 모아서”, followed by another verb, such as to praise, to say or to compliment.

Variations and examples 사람들이 모두 입을 모아서 그 밴드를 칭찬했어요. [sa-ram-deu-ri mo-du i-beul mo-a-seo geu baen-deu-reul ching-cha-nae-sseo-yo.] = People all agreed and praised the band unanimously. 학생들은 입을 모아서 그 선생님이 최고라고 했어요. [hak-saeng-deu-reun i-beul mo-a-seo geu seon-saeng-ni-mi choe-go-ra-go hae-sseo-yo.] = Students agreed unanimously that the teacher is the best.

손 놓고 있다

[son no-ko it-da]

Literal translation: to have one's hands off something, to not hold onto something Actual usage: to not do anything about a problem, to ignore something that has to be done 손 [son] means “hand”, 놓다 [no-ta] means “to let go’, and -고 있다 [-go it-da] means “to be doing something.” So all together, it literally means that you are not holding onto something or that you have let something go away from your hands. This is an expression that describes how you have something you need to do, or a problem that you need to tend to, but you just keep your hands off it and don't do anything about it. Not doing anything about a problem usually causes a problem, so the following phrase after this expression is also usually about how you now have a bigger problem.

Variations and examples 손 놓고 있다가 일이 커졌어요. [son no-ko it-da-ga i-ti keo-jyeo-sseo-yo.] = I didn't do anything about the matter and it became more serious. 숙제를 해야 되는데, 피곤해서 그냥 손 놓고 있었어요. [suk-je-reul hae-ya doe-neun-de, pi-go-nae-seo geu-nyang son no-ko i-sseo-sseo-yo.] = I had to do my homework, but I was tired and didn't do anything about it.

Gwangju News June 2013 51

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food

Chwihwaseon Words and photos by Karina Prananto

C

hoihwaseon, literally means, “drunken flower goddess” is the name of an authentic Chinese restaurant here in Gwangju, but have no fear, they still offer a small fare of Korean foods on their menu. Located near the 5.18 Gwangju Student Hall, this restaurant can easily be found, thanks to its pink name board, the menu posted on their glass walls and Chinese lanterns hanging outside.

Upon entering, you will see a lot of alcohol displayed on their walls, which proves its name.

The restaurant specializes in mutton, which is cooked in many different styles. There are skewers, soup, shabu-shabu and grilled galbi style, to name a few. The mutton skewers are their main menu item, but you might also want to try their quail or chicken wing skewers.

The menu is not written in English but there are pictures to help you decide. And strangely, although it is a Chinese restaurant, the menu is not printed in Chinese either. But if you are Chinese, you should not have trouble ordering anyway, since they have Chinese-speaking staff. You might want to ask for recommendations, although it is strongly recommended that you order at least one portion of the mutton skewer. The price is rather steep, although each portion is enough to feed two people, so it would be best to bring a friend or two to share the meal and the bill.

The mutton is exquisite and does not leave you with bad breath. You can have a choice to have the skewers grilled in front of you or have them grilled away from you instead. Most skewer menus will give you ten sticks per portion, which is just enough to feed two people, or one person, if you are really hungry. The restaurant serves many different kinds of beer, mostly Chinese brands, including Tsingtao. Although you might want to try another, make sure that you are not drinking on an empty stomach, or you might end up getting drunk easily, as most Chinese liquors can be as high as 40 percent alcohol by volume.

If you have been to China and eaten Chinese food, you will know that Chinese foods are delicious but super greasy. This is not the case with 52

Gwangju News June 2013

Lazhiji

Restaurant exterior

Restaurant interior

Mutton skewer

Fried rice

this restaurant but their food can be spicy, like the Kung Pao Chicken and Lazhiji (spicy fried chicken), so you might want to tell the cook to use a less amount of chili peppers. There are also malas (Chinese corn peppers) in them, which are hidden and can be hard to find, but when bitten the taste it leaves behind in your mouth can ruin the whole meal. So be careful of that too.

The staff is friendly and the location is great, as it is in the middle of Gwangju. Going to this restaurant can be an exciting, new experience. So try to take a break from the usual Korean fare and head to Sangmu. This restaurant will surely have you leaving full and satisfied.

Chwihwaseon 취화선 Address: 1296-17 Ssangchon-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju Phone: 062-374-8292 Directions: Buses no. 10, 16, 18, 38, 46, 62, 63, 64, 290 and get off at 5.18 Gwangju Student Hall (5.18 광주학생회관)

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food

Pumpkin Pancakes Stir-fried Anchovies

호박전

멸치볶음

Words and photo by Park Kyungjin On special holidays we cannot forget about jeons (pancakes). There are all kinds of jeons like hobakjeon (pumpkin pancake) and pajeon (vegetable pancake. A lot of people think it is difficult to make this food. But I think it is really easy to make hobakjeon. Also, pumpkin is well-nourishing and tastes good, loved by all regardless of age. In addition, women like pumpkin because it makes their skin healthier. I hope you have a good time cooking with your children.

Things to prepare (for 2 - 3 persons) 1 green pumpkin, 2 tablespoon of flour, 2 eggs, 14 milliliters of oil, 2 grams of crushed garlic, 2 grams of salt

Cooking Method 1. Cut the green pumpkin into slices of about 0.5 centimeters, remove the moisture and sprinkle a little bit of salt.

2. Put eggs, chopped garlic and salt into a small mixing bowl.

3. Remove the moisture and coat the pumpkin green slightly with flour.

4. Cover the pumpkin with eggs and bake both sides of the pumpkin in an oiled pan.

5. It is finished! (If you want, you can eat the pumpkin pancake dipped in soy sauce).

When I was young I always remembered hearing my parents say, "If you want strong bones, you have to eat calcium, like anchovies." So, I ate a lot of stirfried anchovies since I was a child. Stir-fried anchovies are good for young children and adults, especially to prevent osteoporosis. So stir-fried anchovies are popular, regardless of age. Stir-fried anchovies are dry side dishes, so the taste does not change even if they are not kept in the refrigerator.

Things to prepare (for one person) 60 grams of small anchovies,15 milliliters of oil, 2 grams of crushed garlic, 10 grams of crushed scallion, 15 milliliters of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of hot pepper paste, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, a little pepper, 4 grams of sesame

Cooking Method 1. Make the sauce by mixing hot pepper paste, sugar, garlic and water in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Stir dried anchovies in a heated pan for one minute.

3. Add olive oil to anchovies and stir it for one more minute.

4. Push the cooked myeolchi (anchovies) to the edge of the pan away from the heat.

5. Add the sauce to the cleared spot on the pan.

6. Tip the pan so only the sauce is over the heat and let the sauce simmer until it looks shiny.

7. Mix the anchovies with the sauce and then remove from the heat.

8. Add sesame oil and sesame seeds, and serve.

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Community Board Have something you want to share with the community?

Gwangju News’ community board provides a space for the community to announce club’s activity, special events and so on.

Please send us the information to gwangjunews@gmail.com.

Gwangju Meditation Group Gwangju Meditation Group meets every Monday at the GIC between 7:30 and 9 p.m. We begin with some gentle yoga stretches and then introduce basic Buddhist meditation techniques and read passages from selected Buddhist teachers.

Email ross.chambers29@gmail.com or search for Gwangju Meditation Group on Facebook for more information.

Photo Gwangju Plus

For photographers, Google+ has become a tool and part of their overall social media strategy. There is a lot to love. If you are an aspiring photographer that is looking for inspiration, education and other individuals to connect with and share your passion for photography, we have an opportunity for you. If you are serious about photography and want to walk a couple steps higher, there is a community that shares pictures that you are more than welcome to join.

For more information, please visit “Photo Gwangju Plus (#photogwangjuplus)” at: https://plus.google.com/u/0/communitie s/110687342506867002799

Cats to have They are free, but you need to vacinate them.

They are Korean short hairs. The cats are 15 months old. Contact Lynne at 010-8692-9101 or e-mail lelie0072003@yahoo.com

Gwangju Ice Hockey Team Looking for men and women of all ages to join us every Saturday night from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Yeomju Ice Rink near World Cup Stadium. If you are interested, contact either Andrew Dunne at atdunne@gmail.com or Chris Wilson at: kreeco@rogers.com

Gwangju Inter FC The Gwangju international soccer team (Gwangju Inter FC) plays regularly every weekend. If you are interested in playing, e-mail: gwangju_soccer@yahoo.com or search ‘Gwangju Inter FC’ on Facebook.

The Gwangju Photography Club The Gwangju Photography Club is a place where many different people can meet, share advice, give ideas, and practice photography. Every month, the Photography Club goes on a photo outing to different places around the city and country to capture the moment and practice new techniques. Anyone is welcome to join the photography group and help share in the experience. To join the group, search Gwangju Photography Club on Facebook.

Sung Bin Home for Girls Sung Bin Home for Girls is looking for creative/ active/ energetic/ outgoing/ enthusiastic longterm volunteers to join in our regular Saturday program. We would like you to give at least two Saturdays per month. Meet every Saturday at 1p.m. in front of downtown Starbucks. All are welcome. For more volunteering information please contact Daniel Lister at: daniellister7@hotmail.com.

Dance Workshop in GIC The dance workshop will be held every second Sunday from 4:30 p.m. by Angie Harley at the GIC. If you are interested in joining, please contact Angie at angiehartley1@gmail.com.

You will learn basic dance and create dance performance with specific theme in this workshop.

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Gwangju News June 2013

Gwangju's Young Adult Cross-Cultural Exchange Korean students from Chonnam and Chosun Universities and foreign English teachers from Gwangju and Jeollanam-do meet together to engage in Gwangju's Young Adult CrossCultural forum. Events are held at the American Corner at the Mudeung Library, sponsored by the U.S. Embassy. These forums serve as a means for people to come together and discuss issues in a culturally comparative lens. So far, topics have included Education Inequality and Food, Health and Sustainability.

All are encouraged to attend. Please contact Connor Dearing at connordearing@gmail.com for more information.

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